The 2d Recruit Training Battalion is led by Lieutenant Colonel Jones and Sergeant Major Jason T. Simmons. Within 2d Battalion, there are four companies: Echo Company, Fox Company, Golf Company and Hotel Company. Each company contains an average of six platoons with 60 to 80 recruits per platoon.

In August 1940, the Depot initiated the battalion training system to expedite the processing of recruits. The 2d Battalion was commissioned Aug. 7, 1940, and became an active command on Sept. 12, 1940. When the Armed Forces were integrated in 1949, 2d Battalion was the first battalion to train black recruits. In September of that year black recruits were integrated into regular platoons.

The 2d Battalion has seen some notable Marines serve in its ranks. Former Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps, SgtMaj. David Sommers, was a drill instructor in 2d Battalion from 1967 to 1969. Another former Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps, SgtMaj. Lewis G. Lee, served as the battalion sergeant major from December 1985 to June 1988.