Posted on Oct 19, 2015
I am proud to say that on 19OCT15 my step-son Jacob began recruit training at MCRD San Diego. Any words of support and encouragement?
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My step-son began serving with the USMC at MCRD San Diego this date. I am extremely proud that he was persistent in overcoming many personal obstacles to reach this point. After boot camp he will attend Aviation Mechanic "A" School in Pensacola, FL for 5 months and he is very excited about finally getting his life on track. Fewer young people his age would even consider entering the military, so his decision to become a US Marine is even more remarkable. Semper Fi, Jacob!
His grandpa (my father-in-law) is a World War II Purple Heart veteran, so there are only 3 of us in this large family who have decided to wear our country's uniform. Small but choice company!
His grandpa (my father-in-law) is a World War II Purple Heart veteran, so there are only 3 of us in this large family who have decided to wear our country's uniform. Small but choice company!
Aviation
Boot Camp
Marines
Career Advice
Edited 9 y ago
Posted 9 y ago
Responses: 10
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I would say the first 3 weeks in Marine Boot Camp are the 3 worse weeks of Jacob's life but then he will being to adapt & enjoy his transition from young kid to young man who is a Marine..
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CPO Andy Carrillo, MS
Yes, we shared with him as much, but hearing about it and living it are two different realities, to be sure. I suggested he repeat, 'Aviation School, Pensacola' over and over. Hope it helps.
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Sgt Tom Cunnally
CPO Andy Carrillo, MS - There's also a lot of comradeship in Boot Camp & guys who excel in rifle qualification will try to help others who are having problems. And share boxes of goodies from home with those who never get any. And make sure their buds looked squared away before an inspection. And the DIs will select a recruit who has his stuff together to be a squad leader who will be held accountable for all the guys in his squad.
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CPO Andy Carrillo, MS
Sgt Tom Cunnally - I will make sure Jacob has goodies to share with those who do not have support throughout bootcamp. Thanks for the pointers!
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Wish him the best from this former Marine! Tell him not to stare at downtown San Diego during firewatch, it slows the days way down.
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CPO Andy Carrillo, MS
Will do, LTC! Great advice, which I ignored on those 24-hour nights on the huge breakwater in the King Abdul Aziz Port of Dammam, KSA, wishing I was back in the states...
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CPO Andy Carrillo, MS, First Congratulations to Jacob! I know that you'll & his mother will be awaiting his dismissal from formation as soon as he passes the CG. While he's at MCRD, you should make sure to send him letters in perfumed envelopes and a big box of Saltine crackers --it'll give him his first "sea stories." Seriously though (if he doesn't get the message from his Senior DI), he about to join one hell of a fraternity. Semper Fi, Chief.
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CPO Andy Carrillo, MS
Indeed! He thrives in a more structured environment than he's had since graduating high school. He also loves turning a wrench, so going into aviation rather than combat engineering seems to be more suitable for his disposition. Thanks again, CPT Strobl!
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