The Marine Corps officer route is unique because it is the only branch with a school between Officer Candidate School (OCS) and Military Occupational Specialties (MOS) school. The Basic School (TBS) is a six-month program for newly commissioned 2nd Lieutenants to expand their training. This means the average 2nd Lt will be in school for nine months before heading off to their respective MOS school.
While specific to the modern Marine Corps spouse, this guide can help any spouse navigate the seemingly never-ending schools for the newly enlisted + commissioned. Learning to embrace the suck and choosing a positive attitude is crucial to thriving during this season of life.
Be Supportive of Your Spouse
They are going through it. There are a lot of unknowns that are often out of their control (When are they getting out of the field? Do they even have liberty this weekend?). Be their steady person and give them grace, you are navigating this chapter together.
Communicate Your Needs
This season is difficult for both of you, no matter how far away you are located. Communication is infrequent during OCS and fleeting during TBS. Be direct; tell your spouse how they can be the spouse you deserve and return the favor.
Lean on Friends and Family
Surround yourself with people who are going to charge your battery. Find meaningful ways to spend time with loved ones. Plan a standing date with a best friend, attend church with your spouse’s family, or enjoy mealtimes with family. Being able to share quality time at “home” gets more difficult when embracing the military lifestyle.
Write a Letter (or 25!)
Never underestimate the power of a handwritten letter. Your spouse will appreciate hearing even the most minute details of your day, especially while they are at OCS. Snail mail can also serve as a way for you to decompress at the end of the day.
Find Getaways Near the School(s)
OCS and TBS are located in Virginia at Marine Corps Base Quantico, which means access to DC, Baltimore, Shenandoah National Park, Fredericksburg, Richmond, and Virginia Beach. MOS school can be a wild card; find day trips and long weekends to get away. Treat this time as an adventure and – if it is in the budget – take advantage of the travel!
Always Have Your Next Visit on the Calendar
The days are long, but the weeks are short, especially if you are a long-distance king/queen! Get out the calendar and coordinate holiday weekends and liberty schedules. Time flies when you have a countdown for your next trip.
Meet Laura
Laura has been a WAF (better yet, GAF) since her boyfriend commissioned with the United States Marine Corps in November 2020. Her home base is Missouri but is currently living in Southern California while her boyfriend is stationed at Camp Pendleton in Southern California. She is a former middle school English teacher and now works full-time in commercial construction in the St. Louis area. When she’s not at work, she can usually be found training for endurance events (running/triathlon) or relaxing on the beach with a book and her two cats. She is thrilled to be part of this supportive community of WAFs!
