For applicants wanting to join the Marines they have to pass to multiple-choice tests based on general knowledge and are around GCSE grade C level. Then they will have to pass a medical and a general fitness test, which includes the bleep test. If successful the applicants will then go on a three day course to see if they are up for the job of a Marine. Again, if they pass the three day course and still feel that they are interested, they can enter the thirty week marine training and if successful, be awarded a Green Beret.
During the Thirty week training period, each recruit is treated equally. No recruit is preferred over the other, only on his or her ability and performance. During training each recruit will have a their own bed which will be located in a room with other recruits, this enables no favouritism amongst recruits, on the grounds of race or ethnicity or else strong acts of discipline are taken place.
More rules are implemented for other recruits who come from different social backrounds, like religion types and ethnic origin. These new rules are things such as dress codes etc. Praying times have been set aside for Muslim followers, so they can fulfill their service of the job and also follow their religion. Different food types such as strong spices have also been implemented, so that people from the different ethnic backgrounds don't feel they have to change their lifestyle and believes for the service and have to conform to other recruits.
Recruits in the Marines from different ethnic backgrounds over the past ten years have increased by around twenty percent. This increase is due to the recruitment schemes, such as support groups and self development procedures designed by the marines, so people from these different ethnic backgrounds can talk to proffesional people if they have any trouble or problems with the service. Also recruits from different ethnic backgrouns choose to stay in the force because of these equal opportunity acts and the rules for praying times, dress codes and food types, which make them feel comfortable in the Marines, to do their job and still follow their religion.
Opportunity for progression in the Marines is quite high as many recruits progress by either proving themselves as good Marines and leaders during operations, or after a certain time period they can follow further training for higher ranks or they can be given higher ranks by good behaviour and following orders.
The Policies and Procedures in the Marines were designed by the Race Relations Act 1976. These acts strongly oppose all forms of discrimination on the grounds of colour, race, ethnic origin, religion, gender marital status or sexual orientation. Other Policies and procedures in the Marines are there shall be no discrimination on the grounds of being married, colour or race and all serving personnel shall have equal opportunity for employment and advancement within the service on the basis of their ability, performance and aptitude for work. Also everyone has the right to work in an evironment free from harassment, intimidation or abuse.
BY GARY RAFFERTY.
