Tot op het Bot!
Photographer Rob Poortvliet had the unique privilege of regularly working with various Marine Corps training classes. Through his lens, he captured the uncertainties, the intense training, the physical and mental exhaustion, and ultimately, the swearing-in process. The photos are now on display in the exhibition "Tot op het Bot!" (To the Bone!) at the Marine Corps Museum.
Elite troops in pictures
Marines are among the elite forces of the Ministry of Defence. They are trained for amphibious and special operations; they can operate at sea, on land, and at the borders. The training is physically and mentally extremely demanding. Those who ultimately reach the finish line have truly given their all.
The Marine Corps Training Center (MOC) gave photographer Rob Poortvliet permission to be present at the Van Ghent Barracks and during the bivouac. He quickly gained the trust of the staff and became part of the group. This allowed him to create a unique series about perseverance and camaraderie. " I was aware of the seclusion, but I started to feel a connection with the Marine Corps. So special! "
All dates
To 30 June 2026
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