Today is the 238th birthday of the USMC. I never paid much attention to this as a kid, but in recent years, it has become quite a tradition to honor those in the USMC, past and present. Today, I dedicate my Day 10 blog to the USMC and a certain young man I am so very proud of! Oorah!
The Marine Corps motto, 'Semper Fi', is the short version of the Latin phrase: Semper Fidelis, which, when directly translated means Always Faithful. Always Faithful. Not sometimes faithful, not when I feel like being faithful. Always Faithful. It is not a negotiable matter. It is not relative to the moment, but rather, it is absolute. Marines tend to pride themselves on their straightforward ability to attend to a mission and their steadfast dedication to accomplish it. Not that any other members of the other branches of the service aren't straightforward and dedicated, there is just something about a Marine. And once their service to this great nation is over, the Marines do not simply stop being faithful. Semper Fi carries them through the rest of their days as well. Always Faithful.
In May of 2013, I had the honor of presenting a senior award to a future Marine. I awarded the Travis C Everett Award to a young man named Jared Recker. When I first met Jared, my heart swelled with pride for this young man as he told me he was going to be a United States Marine. Jared accepted the award in a very humble, quiet manner. He seemed a bit timid, shy, not what I would have expected from a future Marine. In July, Jared left for boot camp and after a few weeks, I received the most heartbreaking letter from him where he seemed so downtrodden over his decision. I knew, just from spending time with him, that he had the fortitude to become a US Marine, he just had to dig deep and find it in himself.
Two weeks ago, Jared visited my home and I was amazed at the transformation that took place in this young man! No longer timid, shy, and reserved, Jared WOW'd me! I was humbled that he thought to stop in and say hello. He is now at his specific training and doing so well!
I am thankful I had the opportunity to make a difference in the life of this young man! I am thankful my brother trusts me to deliver his award. And I am thankful for the countless Marines who have served our country! I am thankful for the friendship I've forged with US Marine Jared Recker!! Semper Fi, my friend. Oorah!
Think Thankfully!!!
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