Warrior Synergy: Marines Hone Mental, Moral, And Physical Capabilities
“MCMAP is an immersive way to prepare Marines for close combat scenarios. It provides a basic foundation to fight anyone with or without a background in martial arts.”
(Photo Credit : Lance Cpl. Kailey J. Maraglia)
MCMAP isn’t just about developing the skills you need to win a fight, it’s about helping you become an “Ethical Warrior.” In that regard, MCMAP fits perfectly with the Marine Corps’ core values of honor, courage, and commitment.
U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Lance Kell assists a Marine with getting over an obstacle during a Marine Corps Martial Arts Program at MCAS Iwakuni, Japan, Dec. 17, 2021.
(Photo Credit : Cpl. Mitchell Austin)
Every Marine’s introduction to MCMAP occurs at their respective basic training school -- The Basic School for officers, and recruit training for enlisted Marines -- where they receive their very first MCMAP belt. The program uses a system of colored belts similar to that of most martial arts systems. From tan, Marines advance onward to grey, green, brown, and black belts while at their permanent duty station or on deployments. With each advancement comes new challenges.
Before earning their respective MCMAP belts, the MCAS Iwakuni Marines completed a belt achievement event designed to push their mental, physical, and emotional limits through a series of obstacles, technique executions, and team building scenarios.
Since 2002, when it was officially introduced Marine Corps-wide, MCMAP has served as a complement to units’ physical fitness program, enhancing unit cohesion and the fitness of the individual Marine. Over time, the teachings of mental discipline, character discipline, and physical discipline have not only helped in the advancement of promotions for Marines, they have also fostered an environment where Marines develop confidence in themselves and their team while maintaining their warrior mindset, regardless of clime, place, or era.
U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Darien Wright, a combat photographer with Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni Communication Strategy and Operations, spars during a belt achievement event at MCAS, Japan, Dec. 17. 2021.
(Photo Credit : Cpl. Mitchell Austin)
“Maintaining a warrior mindset means that you are prepared physically and mentally when dealing with fear and fatigue,” Bestul said. “Having a warrior mindset lets you accomplish any mission given to you at a moment’s notice without second guessing yourself in the process.”
Over 30 Marines at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, spent their end-of-year off-time conducting belt sustainment training and learning advanced martial arts techniques such as blocks, strikes, and takedowns in an effort to earn their next belt class. With each lesson, Marines collectively discussed the warrior ethos, combat leadership traits and principles, as well as mental and physical discipline.
A U.S. Marine climbs over an obstacle during a belt achievement event at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Dec. 17. 2021.
(Photo Credit : Cpl. Mitchell Austin)