Marine Corps recruits with Alpha Company, 1st Recruit Training Battalion, hold out their boots during a pick-up event at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, California, Sept. 8, 2025. Pick-up day signifies the first official day of training in which recruits will meet their drill instructor team for the first time, prepare their gear and squad bays, and expectations are set for the remainder of their time in recruit training. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Sarah M. Grawcock)