Sara walked off Quantico moments ago in her civvies with a piece of paper in her hand and a new smile on her face. She is now headed home for a visit, behind the wheel of her new truck.
Much of the journey from DEP Poolee to E-6 is logged on this blog and now enters the phase of hindsight and memory. With better than 13,500 visits by the time I was asked to make it private for security reasons, three years ago, this blog has been a great therapeutic experience. Now it is public again with the hope that some parent, or friend, or aspiring Marine will find the information, though dated, of some help and perhaps even insightful.
"Goodnight 'Chesty!' Wherever you are."
Friday, June 12, 2015
The end of the "Adventure"
Five years? Really!?
We were surprised a while back by Sgt Sara that she had made the decision to EAS or End her Active Service. For many reasons, we were convinced she was to be a career Marine.
When I asked her why, she replied, "Dad, with the MSG program and this past year [as a first female MSG MSAU], I have done everything I got into the Marines to do. It's time to move on." Well, good!
So, on the day she says 'good-bye' to her life of the past 5 years, it will be with great pride and honor that I will "lower" and put away the USMC flag that I have displayed in my yard 24/7/365 since the day she became a United States Marine that August morning after the Crucible back in 2010.
Words cannot describe the journey this has been. I have been emotional. I have been anxious. I have been proud. I have been honored. I have been glad. This "little" adventure took me across the country three times... to Parris Island, to Cherry Point, and to Quantico. I have proudly stood several times a year at concerts and ball games, being recognized as the parent of a Marine, and I always stand during the playing of the Marine Hymn.
This "adventure" took our Marine to Parris Island, Havelock, New River, Quantico, Baghdad, T'Blisi, Arbil Governate, the Ukraine, the Bahamas, West Virginia, as well as Paris, Istanbul, and Kuwait City (and probably other places I just don't know about yet, ha!). She had to be med-evac'd by chopper, went horseback riding in the Caucusus mountains, walked the coast of the Black Sea, and other adventures which are left unwritten. She personally met and worked with Ambassadors, the VPOTUS, and our Secretary of State.
The Red Cross along with her FRO (Family Readiness Officer Ms Amy Watson), helped get her home from the other side of the planet within 48 hours of initial contact so she could say good-bye to her dying Grand-dad. Her "Pop Pop" prayed for her day and night. Her choice to give these years in service caused her to miss a lot of our lives and for us to miss a lot of hers. I would say that that has been the biggest challenge ... missing the events that make family a family. She is still Sara, but what I see is so radically different. She left our home a nervous, if not a smidgen rebellious, DEP Poolee. She became one of the Honor Graduates from Boot Camp, was meritoriously promoted twice, was selected as a first female into the post Bengazi MSG Augmentation Unit. While overseas she was Assistant Det Cmdr of her unit. She picked up some new scars and significant necessary tattoos. (Memories of a schoolhouse brown recluse encounter while sleeping remain visible due to emergency surgeryas well as a Spider tat next to the scar.)
She now walks with an air of confidence and accomplishment. She has friends for life and a second national family that will never abandon her. She loves guns, the outdoors, and her independence.
All in all, she is a better person, a stronger person, and has become my good friend.
So, Sgt Sara, to you I again say, publicly, thank you. Thank you for staying true to your purpose, for excelling, for never EVER "dropping your pack," for having the backs of the Marines you worked alongside, the Marines you led, and those Marines who led you.
I believe it is safe to say, you have been a credit to the Corps.
Good job Marine.
I will always take great pride that one of my own served her country for better than 5 years, and in particular, as a twice meritoriously promoted, distinguished graduate, company high shooter, range coach, Assistant Det Cmdr female in the United States Marine Corps.
When I asked her why, she replied, "Dad, with the MSG program and this past year [as a first female MSG MSAU], I have done everything I got into the Marines to do. It's time to move on." Well, good!
So, on the day she says 'good-bye' to her life of the past 5 years, it will be with great pride and honor that I will "lower" and put away the USMC flag that I have displayed in my yard 24/7/365 since the day she became a United States Marine that August morning after the Crucible back in 2010.
Words cannot describe the journey this has been. I have been emotional. I have been anxious. I have been proud. I have been honored. I have been glad. This "little" adventure took me across the country three times... to Parris Island, to Cherry Point, and to Quantico. I have proudly stood several times a year at concerts and ball games, being recognized as the parent of a Marine, and I always stand during the playing of the Marine Hymn.
This "adventure" took our Marine to Parris Island, Havelock, New River, Quantico, Baghdad, T'Blisi, Arbil Governate, the Ukraine, the Bahamas, West Virginia, as well as Paris, Istanbul, and Kuwait City (and probably other places I just don't know about yet, ha!). She had to be med-evac'd by chopper, went horseback riding in the Caucusus mountains, walked the coast of the Black Sea, and other adventures which are left unwritten. She personally met and worked with Ambassadors, the VPOTUS, and our Secretary of State.
The Red Cross along with her FRO (Family Readiness Officer Ms Amy Watson), helped get her home from the other side of the planet within 48 hours of initial contact so she could say good-bye to her dying Grand-dad. Her "Pop Pop" prayed for her day and night. Her choice to give these years in service caused her to miss a lot of our lives and for us to miss a lot of hers. I would say that that has been the biggest challenge ... missing the events that make family a family. She is still Sara, but what I see is so radically different. She left our home a nervous, if not a smidgen rebellious, DEP Poolee. She became one of the Honor Graduates from Boot Camp, was meritoriously promoted twice, was selected as a first female into the post Bengazi MSG Augmentation Unit. While overseas she was Assistant Det Cmdr of her unit. She picked up some new scars and significant necessary tattoos. (Memories of a schoolhouse brown recluse encounter while sleeping remain visible due to emergency surgeryas well as a Spider tat next to the scar.)
She now walks with an air of confidence and accomplishment. She has friends for life and a second national family that will never abandon her. She loves guns, the outdoors, and her independence.
All in all, she is a better person, a stronger person, and has become my good friend.
So, Sgt Sara, to you I again say, publicly, thank you. Thank you for staying true to your purpose, for excelling, for never EVER "dropping your pack," for having the backs of the Marines you worked alongside, the Marines you led, and those Marines who led you.
I believe it is safe to say, you have been a credit to the Corps.
Good job Marine.
I will always take great pride that one of my own served her country for better than 5 years, and in particular, as a twice meritoriously promoted, distinguished graduate, company high shooter, range coach, Assistant Det Cmdr female in the United States Marine Corps.
Saturday, November 23, 2013
My "Tulasi" Her Tbilisi
It was about the year 1828 that the Lochapoka clan of the Muscogee tribe established a settlement they called "Tulasi" under the oak tree near what is now the corner of Cheyenne and 18th Street. The tree is still there. Tulasi town, now called Tulsa, actually means "Old Town" in the Creek language. I am proud of the history and 185 year old heritage of the town I call home. That's a long time!
Today I became more aware that age is relative.
After poking around on YouTube this afternoon, looking at clips of TBilisi, I was impressed... again... at how little I know of this grand world of ours... and how easy it is to project a personal world view onto others of whom I know nothing.
In one clip, I listened to a smiling girl, back home in Georgia on holiday, speak proudly of her city, the monuments and history (the language is beautiful ...I was glad for the subtitles, ha!). She mentioned the many church buildings (owing to the fact that Christianity was adopted by the city before 400AD) and how religious Georgians are.
I let myself be consumed. I listened to the music, I looked into faces, and I saw people doing life, loving, hurting, living, laughing, crying ... all of which I am completely oblivious to. My small corner of the universe consumes me, as theirs does them. I wondered what they hoped in and for. And I was hungry, so I wondered about their food... which on the clips looks like it needs to be evaluated in person... yes?
Later, as I drove down the street coming home from church... on MY side of the planet... I was still marveling at the differences. Just look at the ancient Tbilisi architecture and heritage vs. the rapid recent growth in my neighborhood. For example, in just the last five years, fields that were filled with rambling cows and the occasional dilapidated fireworks stand have been replaced with bustling shopping centers, restaurants, elaborate gyms, new car lots and hotels.
Though I may be conditioned to like and appreciate this kind of progress and transition, it is interesting how much enjoyment, and maybe even comfort, I find in the permanent, like the tree that dominates our front yard. It is probably one of the most majestic Oak trees I have ever seen. I would guess that it surely dates back way more than 100 years. I sat one time watching the squirrels do their spiral chase up and down and imagined the world of that young tree many generations of squirrels ago. To think that I have in my own front yard something that represents such great endurance, stability, and longevity.
And then, I look at a city, where my daughter walks, works, and plays whose written history dates back to 364AD and where there is archeological evidence of being inhabited by humans as early as the 4th millenium BC. Really? Well, at least I have an old tree! Goodness!
I just wonder... and want to visit her and that place... to hear, see, smell, and feel the heart of the culture. Oh yeah, and to taste and enjoy...of course!
Matthew 28:19-20
Today I became more aware that age is relative.
After poking around on YouTube this afternoon, looking at clips of TBilisi, I was impressed... again... at how little I know of this grand world of ours... and how easy it is to project a personal world view onto others of whom I know nothing.
In one clip, I listened to a smiling girl, back home in Georgia on holiday, speak proudly of her city, the monuments and history (the language is beautiful ...I was glad for the subtitles, ha!). She mentioned the many church buildings (owing to the fact that Christianity was adopted by the city before 400AD) and how religious Georgians are.
I let myself be consumed. I listened to the music, I looked into faces, and I saw people doing life, loving, hurting, living, laughing, crying ... all of which I am completely oblivious to. My small corner of the universe consumes me, as theirs does them. I wondered what they hoped in and for. And I was hungry, so I wondered about their food... which on the clips looks like it needs to be evaluated in person... yes?
Later, as I drove down the street coming home from church... on MY side of the planet... I was still marveling at the differences. Just look at the ancient Tbilisi architecture and heritage vs. the rapid recent growth in my neighborhood. For example, in just the last five years, fields that were filled with rambling cows and the occasional dilapidated fireworks stand have been replaced with bustling shopping centers, restaurants, elaborate gyms, new car lots and hotels.
Though I may be conditioned to like and appreciate this kind of progress and transition, it is interesting how much enjoyment, and maybe even comfort, I find in the permanent, like the tree that dominates our front yard. It is probably one of the most majestic Oak trees I have ever seen. I would guess that it surely dates back way more than 100 years. I sat one time watching the squirrels do their spiral chase up and down and imagined the world of that young tree many generations of squirrels ago. To think that I have in my own front yard something that represents such great endurance, stability, and longevity.
And then, I look at a city, where my daughter walks, works, and plays whose written history dates back to 364AD and where there is archeological evidence of being inhabited by humans as early as the 4th millenium BC. Really? Well, at least I have an old tree! Goodness!
I just wonder... and want to visit her and that place... to hear, see, smell, and feel the heart of the culture. Oh yeah, and to taste and enjoy...of course!
Matthew 28:19-20
Tuesday, November 19, 2013
Everyone but my Marine - Someone had to leave for work!
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| Georgia Ambassador Norland and new Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili along with Sara's "Boys" and the Det Commander (SSgt on right) |
Monday, November 18, 2013
Sunday, November 17, 2013
Developments - MSAU vs Mustang
Now that the blog is no longer public and can be read by members only, I am happy to be able to share news in a different way.
Today, Sunday, we were surprised with a phone call from Sara. It is always such a treat when she is able to get through to us and we get to hear her voice.
Sara introduced me to a new development for MSG's. I did some reading and this is what I found.
After we chatted, I found in the Marine Times that this past June, 1000 additional Marine Security Guards were authorized boosting the MSG force to 2200 worldwide. Probably as many as 50 new diplomatic sites over the next three years will receive a MSG detachment. This will impact Sara directly as she will be receiving 2 additional MSG's to her detachment in January. The standard detachment size has been increased from 5 to 7 and many will be increased to full squad size of 13.
Next, and of particular interest, is the newly formed MSAU (em-saw) or Marine Security Augmentation Unit which will be made up of 120 MSG's composing 9 or 10 squad sized units. This is a new elite group within the MSG program. Initially, it was to be open only to MSG's with combat operational specialties. Since many MSG's do not come from infantry MOS's and service for at least a year in the MSG program is a prerequisite, others, including females are open for consideration.
After picking up Sergeant, Sara received word from her command at the "schoolhouse" in Quantico that there was interest in nominating her for one of the 120 slots.
This in and of itself is a testament to the confidence her command has in Sara, and quite frankly, Sara's confidence in herself and her work ethic.
The purpose of the MSAU will be to provide immediate crisis response embassy security reinforcement. Should this materialize for Sara, she will be based out of Quantico, VA, possibly for the final year of her enlistment. MSAU participants participate in additional training in communications, weapons, advanced room entry procedures and how to escape from a collapsed building.
The purpose of developing this new asset, according to my research, is to provide an overlap of existing resources available to the Ambassador beyond the FAST teams and MEU's that may be in the area in the event security needs to be beefed up. It also provides a standing team that understands the Embassy mission and is more of an extension of what they are doing already.
Sara says she has 3 options in her mind at this time: One would be to finish her five year active duty enlistment and not "re-up" (this is not under consideration as Sara loves what she is doing); a second option would be to pursue another period of time as active duty enlisted; and the third, as mentioned in a previous post, is to pursue the MECEP, finish a college degree and be commissioned as a Second Lieutenant making a career as an officer (with a desire to fly).
Today, Sunday, we were surprised with a phone call from Sara. It is always such a treat when she is able to get through to us and we get to hear her voice.
Sara introduced me to a new development for MSG's. I did some reading and this is what I found.
After we chatted, I found in the Marine Times that this past June, 1000 additional Marine Security Guards were authorized boosting the MSG force to 2200 worldwide. Probably as many as 50 new diplomatic sites over the next three years will receive a MSG detachment. This will impact Sara directly as she will be receiving 2 additional MSG's to her detachment in January. The standard detachment size has been increased from 5 to 7 and many will be increased to full squad size of 13.
Next, and of particular interest, is the newly formed MSAU (em-saw) or Marine Security Augmentation Unit which will be made up of 120 MSG's composing 9 or 10 squad sized units. This is a new elite group within the MSG program. Initially, it was to be open only to MSG's with combat operational specialties. Since many MSG's do not come from infantry MOS's and service for at least a year in the MSG program is a prerequisite, others, including females are open for consideration.
After picking up Sergeant, Sara received word from her command at the "schoolhouse" in Quantico that there was interest in nominating her for one of the 120 slots.
This in and of itself is a testament to the confidence her command has in Sara, and quite frankly, Sara's confidence in herself and her work ethic.
The purpose of the MSAU will be to provide immediate crisis response embassy security reinforcement. Should this materialize for Sara, she will be based out of Quantico, VA, possibly for the final year of her enlistment. MSAU participants participate in additional training in communications, weapons, advanced room entry procedures and how to escape from a collapsed building.
The purpose of developing this new asset, according to my research, is to provide an overlap of existing resources available to the Ambassador beyond the FAST teams and MEU's that may be in the area in the event security needs to be beefed up. It also provides a standing team that understands the Embassy mission and is more of an extension of what they are doing already.
Sara says she has 3 options in her mind at this time: One would be to finish her five year active duty enlistment and not "re-up" (this is not under consideration as Sara loves what she is doing); a second option would be to pursue another period of time as active duty enlisted; and the third, as mentioned in a previous post, is to pursue the MECEP, finish a college degree and be commissioned as a Second Lieutenant making a career as an officer (with a desire to fly).
Monday, November 11, 2013
Happy 238th Birthday and Happy Veterans Day.
Thank you for your commitment, your honor, and your courage. Mostly, I would thank you for your hard work.
It has been 1,267 days since we walked out of MEPS and left you waving in your DEP Poolee shirt. It amazes me to consider that you have gone from Yellow Footprints to E-5 in 1257 of those days... particularly for a 2nd Airwing Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron Cryogenics Equipment specialist. (that's a mouthful) where rank advancement is contingent on attrition. Yes, as you have stated, MSG work has been good to you ... but then, your achievements and potential has been recognized and your abilities refined.
The only downside? Your last Marine Ball in Baghdad, you were a Lance Corporal (and the youngest Marine in the detachment) so you never got to wear your Corporal stripes to a Ball!... Oh well.
Not that I would prognosticate, but it makes one wonder how long it will be before you are wearing the "Gold Bar" collar device. If you made it your goal for a career choice, I would say... umm ... within the next 36 months, considering college and all. It could happen! But that is a decision that will require another signature sometime in March or April 2014 I would guess as you wind down your fourth year. That is surely something to think about. I won't say it can't be done, because I know you too well.
As always, we pray for you and your choices and will always support whatever you feel led to be and do.
So .. you are missed! Imagine that! :)
Happy Veterans Day and Happy Birthday Marine.
It has been 1,267 days since we walked out of MEPS and left you waving in your DEP Poolee shirt. It amazes me to consider that you have gone from Yellow Footprints to E-5 in 1257 of those days... particularly for a 2nd Airwing Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron Cryogenics Equipment specialist. (that's a mouthful) where rank advancement is contingent on attrition. Yes, as you have stated, MSG work has been good to you ... but then, your achievements and potential has been recognized and your abilities refined.
The only downside? Your last Marine Ball in Baghdad, you were a Lance Corporal (and the youngest Marine in the detachment) so you never got to wear your Corporal stripes to a Ball!... Oh well.
Not that I would prognosticate, but it makes one wonder how long it will be before you are wearing the "Gold Bar" collar device. If you made it your goal for a career choice, I would say... umm ... within the next 36 months, considering college and all. It could happen! But that is a decision that will require another signature sometime in March or April 2014 I would guess as you wind down your fourth year. That is surely something to think about. I won't say it can't be done, because I know you too well.
As always, we pray for you and your choices and will always support whatever you feel led to be and do.
So .. you are missed! Imagine that! :)
Happy Veterans Day and Happy Birthday Marine.
Monday, November 4, 2013
Three Stripes Up and A/Det Cmdr
Sara got "pinned" this morning so now her attire reflects her rank. We are so proud of your hard work, not only making it through the meritorious board process, but for being singled out through that process as the only nominee to be awarded the advancement. You will wear those stripes with great pride and great responsibility as the "A slash" (Assistant Detachment Commander). We are all sitting back home just grinning and enjoying the blessing of God in your life through your hard work and perseverance.
"Ask and you shall receive!!"
"What you think about, you bring about!"
Of course you ordered your Sergeant rank pins ahead of time so you would have them on hand! Why not?!
"If the mind can think it, and believe it, it can achieve it!"
"Show me your five best friends [who you spend your time with], and I will show you your future!"
Singing "Praise God from whom all blessings flow..."
"In whatever your hand finds to do, do it heartily as unto the Lord!" ... that you have done.
Well done, Sara. Well done, daughter! Well done, Marine!
Sunday, November 3, 2013
Lt Col to Sara ... "Well done, Marine."
From: C[], J[] E
Sent: Saturday, November 02, 2013 6:29 PM
To: S[], Sara E
Cc: R[], Francisco; W[], Larry C; R[], Brandon D
Subject: Congratulations
Sent: Saturday, November 02, 2013 6:29 PM
To: S[], Sara E
Cc: R[], Francisco; W[], Larry C; R[], Brandon D
Subject: Congratulations
Sgt S[],
Congratulations on your well deserved meritorious promotion to Sergeant. You were selected #1 out of group of nominated Corporals that represent the very best of within this program and embody what it is to be emulated as an NCO. With this promotion, comes the enormous responsibility of serving as a leader in the NCO ranks. I know that you more than ready to step up and accept the challenge. Well done, Marine.
Semper Fi!
LtCol J[] E. C[]
Commanding Officer
MCESG - Region 1
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| VIA FACETIME: I am soo excited... this is awesome!!! |
Wednesday, October 30, 2013
Monday, October 28, 2013
Navy and Marine Overseas Ribbon awarded.
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Uniforms really looking snappy with all the bling! Ha! Niiiice!!!
Sunday, October 20, 2013
Trim and Fit, Ready and Mean ... Gameface ... the real deal!
This was the foto included in Sara's Meritorious Promotion package which her command nominated her for.
All business. Thanks for sharing, Sara.
All business. Thanks for sharing, Sara.
Sunday, September 1, 2013
MSG Year Two Post
Founded in the 5th century in the heart of the Caucasus mountains by Vakhtang
Gorgasali Tbilisi has served as Georgia's capital for nearly 1500 years,
and its proximity to east-west trade routes made the city a point of contention
between various rival empires. Located on the both banks of the Kura
River and dominated by Mount Mtatsminda, Narikala
fortress and the Kartlis Deda monument, Tbilisi historic district is the center of Old Tbilisi.
.JPG) |
| United States Embassy |
Wednesday, August 28, 2013
300 CFT... again!
When calls come in like one just did from the other side of the planet, it just makes your day.
Sara is learning all the in's and outs of the new Post One and feeling good. I would think so.
Her arrival went like this... pull a 24 the day before travel wrapping things up and good-byes. Three international airports and 18 hours later, her flight arrived on time at 3am from Istanbul. Then off to report in and straight to the range. After spending time on the range in Baghdad weekly, speed and accuracy netted her a perfect score... or "all money" in her words. Good introduction to her new detachment and Commander since they did not do as well. (big smile).
Then, word comes today that during an inspection by the Regional Officer out of Frankfurt, Sara expressed interest in the MECEP. He mentioned that he had not had a MECEP in a while and could be interested in helping.
What ensued onsite there at her new post was very fun for her. The guy spoke to her Det Commander and had her and another "dude" run a CFT (Combat Fitness Test). For those that may understand the value, she did her best times... the obstacle course in 2:06 and the movement to contact (880 Meters) in 2:35 and 60 ammo can lifts in under 1:30. (she wished she had done 90 to score a 300 on the male CFT) With that she scored a perfect 300 CFT for the third time running (or an equivalent 279 on the male scale).
I would think she made a good impression.
She just finished her college algebra course with a final grade of better than 93%.
Now she will focus on meeting requirements for the next meritorious board and if she meets the requirements in time, she may have a shot at adding a stripe... three stripes in just over 3 years... and then the potential for the MECEP.
"One of the most common programs Enlisted Marines use to transition from enlisted to officer is the Marine Corps Enlisted Commissioning Education Program (MECEP). MECEP offers qualified Marines the chance to go to a four-year college full-time, while maintaining active duty status and pay. Selection is based on an individual's potential for commissioned service as demonstrated by their service record, previous academic record, and evidence of career and academic self-improvement.
MECEP is for exceptional Marines who have not yet completed their bachelor's degree. Selected marines will attend a 10-week Officer Candidates School (OCS) course and upon completing will attend a university or college offering an NROTC program. Upon completion of their degree, they will be commissioned as second lieutenants."
She says she loves her job. Sounds like it.
Sara is learning all the in's and outs of the new Post One and feeling good. I would think so.
Her arrival went like this... pull a 24 the day before travel wrapping things up and good-byes. Three international airports and 18 hours later, her flight arrived on time at 3am from Istanbul. Then off to report in and straight to the range. After spending time on the range in Baghdad weekly, speed and accuracy netted her a perfect score... or "all money" in her words. Good introduction to her new detachment and Commander since they did not do as well. (big smile).
Then, word comes today that during an inspection by the Regional Officer out of Frankfurt, Sara expressed interest in the MECEP. He mentioned that he had not had a MECEP in a while and could be interested in helping.
What ensued onsite there at her new post was very fun for her. The guy spoke to her Det Commander and had her and another "dude" run a CFT (Combat Fitness Test). For those that may understand the value, she did her best times... the obstacle course in 2:06 and the movement to contact (880 Meters) in 2:35 and 60 ammo can lifts in under 1:30. (she wished she had done 90 to score a 300 on the male CFT) With that she scored a perfect 300 CFT for the third time running (or an equivalent 279 on the male scale).
I would think she made a good impression.
She just finished her college algebra course with a final grade of better than 93%.
Now she will focus on meeting requirements for the next meritorious board and if she meets the requirements in time, she may have a shot at adding a stripe... three stripes in just over 3 years... and then the potential for the MECEP.
"One of the most common programs Enlisted Marines use to transition from enlisted to officer is the Marine Corps Enlisted Commissioning Education Program (MECEP). MECEP offers qualified Marines the chance to go to a four-year college full-time, while maintaining active duty status and pay. Selection is based on an individual's potential for commissioned service as demonstrated by their service record, previous academic record, and evidence of career and academic self-improvement.
MECEP is for exceptional Marines who have not yet completed their bachelor's degree. Selected marines will attend a 10-week Officer Candidates School (OCS) course and upon completing will attend a university or college offering an NROTC program. Upon completion of their degree, they will be commissioned as second lieutenants."
She says she loves her job. Sounds like it.
Tuesday, June 11, 2013
In every place, in every circumstance!
Sometimes it's hard to get your head around this. That's OK. Your heart "knows" it.
Wednesday, May 15, 2013
Three years
Corporal Sara... I must say, time and hard work has turned you into a responsible Marine. The change is evident. The pride I feel is greater.
It is hard to imagine it has already been three years since you literally marched out of our lives. In some ways, it has been a long three years. In others, time has seemed to pass quickly. For example, three years ago, your younger brother was just finishing the 9th grade. While you and your fellow NCO's kept vigil at the embassy half way around the world, we saw him proudly graduate last evening. You know he, like you and his other sisters, was a real stand out. He was selected by audition to perform for the graduation. How fitting it is that he sang a song of home, and the love and affection that we find in being a family. During our last time together, surely you sensed the deep deep love and commitment we have for you and for each other. It goes without saying that you have that same commitment to each of the family.
So, in your absence, it is only fitting that this song of "Home" be dedicated to you and to your faithful Marine family, both in your part of the world and across the globe.
You are missed, loved, and prayed over daily. Enjoy the video.
It is hard to imagine it has already been three years since you literally marched out of our lives. In some ways, it has been a long three years. In others, time has seemed to pass quickly. For example, three years ago, your younger brother was just finishing the 9th grade. While you and your fellow NCO's kept vigil at the embassy half way around the world, we saw him proudly graduate last evening. You know he, like you and his other sisters, was a real stand out. He was selected by audition to perform for the graduation. How fitting it is that he sang a song of home, and the love and affection that we find in being a family. During our last time together, surely you sensed the deep deep love and commitment we have for you and for each other. It goes without saying that you have that same commitment to each of the family.
So, in your absence, it is only fitting that this song of "Home" be dedicated to you and to your faithful Marine family, both in your part of the world and across the globe.
You are missed, loved, and prayed over daily. Enjoy the video.
Saturday, April 27, 2013
Sadness in the passing of a Marine friend
In memory of Todd North.
It is with a heavy heart we received the word from our Marine that Todd North, a close friend, and part of our Marine's extended Marine family, had his life taken from him at Flyer's in Havelock last week.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to his wife, Alyssa, his son Asa, daughter Anna and his parents.
It is with a heavy heart we received the word from our Marine that Todd North, a close friend, and part of our Marine's extended Marine family, had his life taken from him at Flyer's in Havelock last week.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to his wife, Alyssa, his son Asa, daughter Anna and his parents.
Thursday, February 14, 2013
"May God help us to accept the truth about who we are, no matter how beautiful it is." M. Wiederkehr
Even the thought of you is cherished. Happy Valentines day.
Monday, February 11, 2013
Wobble Wobble Cha Cha Cha
So comes the time for the CO visit... all the way from UAE to check on the Det and "Footloose" who by the way is back in her normal boot and pushing herself to the max. Today as Vehicle NCO, after an all-night post, the Corporal is taking her vehicles to the shop to be washed and cleaned for the guest soon to arrive.
She is told her healing is four to five weeks ahead of schedule. She says it is because of a pill she takes called Protandim and cream called True Science. I just think she is impressive!
Get your groove on Marine...
She is told her healing is four to five weeks ahead of schedule. She says it is because of a pill she takes called Protandim and cream called True Science. I just think she is impressive!
Get your groove on Marine...
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| The Wobble at the Marine Ball 2012 as a LCpl |
Monday, February 4, 2013
"Footloose" gets "blood stripe"
Congrats to new NCO Sara for achieving E-4 on February 1, 2013. She will now proudly wear the red stripe on her dress blues and add a stripe to all her uniforms.
Proud of our Sara as she continues her adventure "footloose" and fancy free.... right? And nice deal on the gear you wore today, headset and all....especially the exec "limo" transportation and the personal armed guard en route to Camp Sather..... I know right?
Proud of our Sara as she continues her adventure "footloose" and fancy free.... right? And nice deal on the gear you wore today, headset and all....especially the exec "limo" transportation and the personal armed guard en route to Camp Sather..... I know right?
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