Collin Gosselin served in the United States Marine Corps, enlisting at age 17. He completed boot camp at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego and was deployed to Iraq in 2007 as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Collin enlisted shortly after graduating from high school in 2006. He chose the Marines for their rigorous training and reputation for discipline. His parents, Jon and Kate Gosselin, supported his decision despite concerns about his young age.
Collin served as a rifleman (MOS 0311), the primary combat role in the Marine Corps. Riflemen are responsible for engaging enemy forces with small arms fire. During his deployment to Iraq, Collin's unit conducted security operations and patrols in Al Anbar Province.
After his honorable discharge in 2010, Collin struggled with the transition to civilian life. He later revealed that he experienced symptoms of PTSD and had difficulty finding employment. In interviews, he described feeling disconnected from his family, particularly his famous siblings from the TV show Jon & Kate Plus 8.
Some reports incorrectly state that Collin saw heavy combat during his deployment. While his unit participated in security operations, Collin himself did not engage in direct firefights. Others assume his military service was brief due to his young age, but he completed a full four-year enlistment.
In a 2016 interview with People Magazine, Collin said, "The Marines taught me discipline and responsibility, but it was hard coming home to a family that didn't understand what I'd been through." He later worked with veterans' organizations to support other transitioning service members.
| Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 2006 | Enlists in the Marine Corps at age 17 |
| 2007 | Deploys to Iraq with 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines |
| 2010 | Honorable discharge after four years of service |