The Crucible

The final training exercise of a Marine's basic training is the 72-hour long Crucible. Although named after the historical final exercise used by the United States Marine Corp it shares many traditions from other Federation members with a martial culture.

Recruits are divided into 12-man teams and dropped into the testing area. Each Marine is equipped with three meal rations, a Marine Phaser Rifle Mk17, a compass and an entrenching tool. The goal is to move from checkpoint to checkpoint from the landing point (Point A) to the final rendezvous point, Point X. Each checkpoint will have an activity to test the Marine's skills learned in Basic Training as well as further instil the principles of SFMC motto of Fidelus - Kol-Ut-Shan - ushaan (loosely translated to loyalty - perseverance through hardship - honour).

Most of the tests require team work to complete them successfully and an individual completing a test counts for nothing; no one succeeds unless the entire team succeeds. Except for two four-hour sleep breaks the Marines receive only limited rest periods before proceeding to the next checkpoint and test. This lack of sleep, short rations and constant movement helps simulate the stress found on a battlefield.

Although the exact tests vary from year to year they usually include obstacle courses, carrying a wounded comrade through a mine field, moving heavy supplies 100m, crossing a river or lake, descending a cliff face, rescuing hostages from a building or competing assault courses. These tests occur at any time, day or night, regardless of weather conditions. While every precaution is taken injuries, and even fatalities, happen.

Traditionally the final event is always a 20km hike in full combat gear, the last 2km being up a steep slope to The Pinnacle. Once there successful recruits are greeted by the camp commandant and given their SFMC beret and insignia. Although the official graduation ceremony for family, friends and dignitaries is held at a later date this ritual is considered by most Marines to be the "real" one.