PARRIS ISLAND, S.C. – Only about 600 Marine Corps drill instructors shape the approximately 20,000 recruits who come to Parris Island annually into basic United States Marines. This handful of dedicated DIs is entrusted with sustaining s more than 237-year legacy by transforming men and women into the next generation of Marines. This is one of those drill instructors.
Sgt. Michael Marquez currently serves as a Marine Corps drill instructor with Golf Company, 2nd Recruit Training Battalion, at Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, S.C. Marquez joined the Marine Corps in February 2006 and became a drill instructor in June 2012. Marquez is a Phoenix native. About 600 Marine Corps drill instructors shape the approximately 20,000 recruits who come to Parris Island annually into basic United States Marines. Parris Island is home to entry-level enlisted training for 50 percent of males and 100 percent of females in the Marine Corps. (Photo by Lance Cpl. David Bessey)