how to find my old drill instructor

Daniel Parker

2 min read

·

16-01-2025

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How to Find Your Old Drill Instructor: A Guide to Tracking Down Your Marine Corps Mentor

Finding your old drill instructor (DI) years after boot camp can be a rewarding experience, allowing you to reconnect with a pivotal figure from your past and share updates on your life's journey. This process might seem daunting, but with a bit of detective work and patience, you can likely track them down.

Understanding the Challenges and Ethical Considerations

Before we begin, it’s crucial to acknowledge that locating a DI can be difficult. Their contact information isn’t publicly available for privacy reasons. Also, consider their potential wishes; some DIs may prefer not to be contacted after their service. Respect their privacy and be prepared for the possibility that you may not find them.

1. Leverage Your Marine Corps Network:

• Muster Rolls and Yearbooks: Start by contacting your former Marine Corps unit. They may have access to old muster rolls or yearbooks containing your DI's information. Remember to be polite and explain your reasons clearly. This is often your best first step.

• Platoon and Company Contacts: Reach out to fellow Marines from your platoon or company. Someone might still be in touch with your DI or have knowledge of their whereabouts. Utilize social media platforms, such as Facebook groups dedicated to your graduating class or specific units.

• Official Marine Corps Channels: Explore the official Marine Corps website. While they won't provide personal contact information, they may offer resources or suggestions.

2. Utilizing Online Search Engines:

• Targeted Searches: Use advanced search techniques on Google, Bing, or other search engines. Combine your DI's name with details like their rank (e.g., Sergeant, Staff Sergeant), the year of your graduation, and your recruit depot (e.g., Parris Island, San Diego).

• Social Media: Search for your DI on various platforms like Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter. Use variations of their name and any known nicknames. Be cautious about contacting them directly; start by sending a friend request and a polite message explaining your intention.

• People Search Engines: Consider using people search engines like WhitePages, ZabaSearch, or Intelius (but be aware that these services often require a paid subscription). These sites aggregate public information, potentially revealing contact details.

3. Reaching Out Through Mutual Connections:

• Former Recruits: If you were close to any of your fellow recruits, see if they've managed to stay in contact with your DI or have any leads.

• Your Recruit Company Commander: If you remember your Company Commander's name, you could try to locate them via the same methods described above. They might recall your DI's subsequent career path.

4. Respecting Privacy and Boundaries:

• Initial Contact: If you locate your DI, remember to be respectful and polite in your initial communication. Explain who you are and why you’re contacting them. Be prepared for them not to respond.

• Their Decision: Respect their decision if they choose not to reconnect. Do not pressure or harass them. Your goal is to reconnect, not to cause any distress.

5. Prepare a Meaningful Message:

If you do manage to contact your DI, craft a message that expresses your gratitude and respect. Share a few concise updates about your life since boot camp. Keep it brief and to the point. Avoid overly sentimental or lengthy narratives.

Finding your old Drill Instructor requires persistence and a respectful approach. Remember to prioritize their privacy and be prepared for the possibility of not finding them. But if you succeed, the experience can be incredibly rewarding.