--- title: "5 things boot Marines buy with their first paycheck" description: "What are young boot Marines to do with their paycheck? Invest for a lifetime of financial security? No, no! Spend those liquid assets fast." date: "2021-10-29" modified: "2022-10-25" authors: - name: "Sean Dodds" link: "https://www.wearethemighty.com/authors/seandodds.md" url: "https://www.wearethemighty.com/popular/5-things-boot-marines-buy-with-their-first-paycheck/" categories: - "Join the Military" - "Military Culture" tags: - "Marine Corps" - "Military Culture" --- # 5 things boot Marines buy with their first paycheck ![]() Basic training is complete; you've returned from leave, showcasing your fancy new uniforms, an emaciated body, and that wicked farmer's tan. Now, you're checking in to SOI/ITB and have, for the first time in your life, money in the bank. What are young [boot Marines]() to do? Invest in a diversified stock portfolio and get a healthy head-start on a lifetime of financial security? No, no! Spend those liquid assets fast, before they can multiply. One may visit either coast's Infantry Training Battalion and witness the shockingly consistent fruits of boot labor. ### 1. The Day Pack If the [Marine Corps]() wanted you to have one, they would've issued it to you — and they did. So, buy *another* one, and everyone at the Oceanside movie theater will assume you're a boot Marine. Besides, how else will you carry all those items you and your mandatory-for-off-base-liberty battle buddy need to see movies and buy ice cream? ![boot Marines backpack]() *(Soldier Systems)* ### 2. A Motivational Water Bottle Listen, sergeant said that hydration is continuous, and dammit, that's exactly what you are gonna do after purchasing this sweet Nalgene. Every available square inch of its surface area needs to be saturated with pure motivation, complete with a tagline. Both "Mess with the best, die like the rest" and "No better friend, no worse enemy" are acceptable entries. Just be sure to get the twenty-ounce bottle — the thirty-two doesn't fit into your day pack's designated bottle holster. ### 3. Challenge Coins You've managed to get "out in town" safely, stayed hydrated, and then you see a local bar, "Goody's." There are only Marine patrons angrily lined up to swallow that sweet nectar. How are you going to break the ice with some of these long-time warriors? If only there were a physical manifestation of all the military trials you've experienced. Something you could hand to another leatherneck to create an instant connection and possibly even earn him a drink. Good news, your mother bought you just the thing in the MCRD San Diego gift shop. Slam it on the table, big boy. This is your moment. ![coins]() *Got to get 'em all!* ### 4. Motivational Graffiti Tee Okay, so no one bought you a drink, but at least everyone in the bar laughed *with* you until you left. Those guys really appreciated your presence, but none of the ladies out here are showing you much attention. They must not know you are a Marine, despite the pack, bottle, and sweet high and tight. How can you simultaneously be humble, but still let *everyone* know you're an American badass, all while enjoying style and comfort? The PX has all your dreams hanging on the rack next to the PT gear, now pull out that Pacific Marine card and make it rain *Teufel Hunden*. ![boot Marine]() *Nice... outfit.* ### 5. Oakley Sunglasses It's sunny and sergeant has already given a class on eye pro, so what's the problem? The ones they issued you aren't what Hoot wore in "Black Hawk Down*".* He had Oakleys on and so will you, but not just any pair will do. There is a military-only edition at the MCX on "main side;" accept no substitutes. Now that you are the epitome of awesomeness and everyone knows you're directly providing them with freedom and security, you can finally rest in your squad bay. Order some Domino's pizza, gather around that one guy who bought a laptop, and enjoy "Starship Troopers" for the thirteenth time. You earned it, Marine! ## Author Check out the stories written by Sean Dodds. Engage with thought-provoking content that offers unique perspectives on military endeavors. ## More - [4 ways to skate in Marine Corps boot camp]() - [7 things that need to be in your veteran starter kit]() - [6 things geardos buy that are actually useful]() - [5 places every boot needs to hit while at Camp Pendleton]() - [5 things NOT to do when you arrive at your first infantry unit]() - [7 things boots will set up an allotment to buy]() - [5 things we wish we had while we were deployed]() - [Military care package themes for every month of deployment]()