Milling (military training exercise)

Milling, in a military context, refers to a brutal and highly controversial form of hand-to-hand combat training, primarily associated with some branches of the United States Marine Corps. It is designed to instill aggression, tenacity, and mental fortitude under extreme duress.

The exercise typically involves two Marines engaging in a closely supervised, brief, but intense fistfight. Participants wear protective gear, including mouthguards and headgear, and are often matched by weight and experience. The primary objective is not necessarily to win the fight in a conventional sense, but rather to demonstrate unwavering aggressiveness and a refusal to quit, even when fatigued or injured.

Milling is intended to simulate the close-quarters combat experienced in real-world scenarios, preparing Marines for the psychological and physical challenges of fighting face-to-face. Proponents argue that it builds resilience, combativeness, and a warrior ethos, enabling Marines to overcome fear and uncertainty in high-pressure situations.

However, milling has also been subject to criticism due to the inherent risk of injury, including concussions and other physical trauma. Some critics argue that the potential benefits of milling do not outweigh the risks, and that alternative training methods can achieve similar results without exposing participants to unnecessary harm. Furthermore, concerns have been raised about the psychological impact of such a physically and emotionally demanding experience. The practice is carefully controlled and monitored by experienced instructors to minimize the risk of serious injury, but the inherent dangers remain a point of debate within the military community and beyond.