Recruits of Alpha Company, 1st Recruit Training Battalion,

Recruits of Alpha Company, 1st Recruit Training Battalion, attempt various Confidence Course obstacles Feb. 8, 2016, on Parris Island, S.C. The course is comprised of 15 obstacles used to condition recruits mentally and physically and to improve balance, coordination and physical strength. Alpha Company is scheduled to graduate April 15, 2016. Parris Island has been the site of Marine Corps recruit training since Nov. 1, 1915. Today, approximately 19,000 recruits come to Parris Island annually for the chance to become United States Marines by enduring 13 weeks of rigorous, transformative training. Parris Island is home to entry-level enlisted training for approximately 50 percent of male recruits and 100 percent of female recruits in the Marine Corps. (Photo by Sgt. Jennifer Schubert)