Warren to Marine

As you know, Warren has been at MCT for several weeks and has one week remaining, graduates next Tuesday.  Last night we got a quick phone call from Warren, Tammy was at BSWA when she got the call.  She quickly moved to a place where she could talk to our Marine.  After talking to his mom, he called me and we spoke for a few minutes and then he called Hannah to talk to her for a few minutes.  Here is what we learned;

• He is doing fine.  He sounded really good and was in good spirits, it sounded like he was having a really good time.
• He has more free time than we have been told they would have (but he using the time wisely).
• He got a lot of time to get more live firing but this time he was able to add in throwing live grenades and firing a grenade launcher.  He told me the name of the weapon but I don't remember what it was, I just remember him saying it was cool.
• He still doesn't know where he is going when this is over but he will know Thursday or Friday this week.
• This week is the BSRE test which is the "Crucible on Crack", see the previous posts for more information on what is involved.  He sounded ready for this test.
• Phone service sucks at Camp Devil Dog, there was a lot of breaking up and can you hear me now moments.

 

A special note to the "Mothers of America" (as termed by Warren).  We saw a post on Facebook this morning where a Marine's mother was concerned about her son only getting MREs to eat.  This message comes from our Marine...."Moms of America, you make life more difficult with your meddling."  He had examples from boot camp where MOAs stepped in and despite their best intentions to help, they made a mess of things (and the recruits paid the price for the meddling).  Remember, these young men and women chose to be Marines.  Therefore, we must accept that and let them be who they are (which may not be what you think it should be).  Step back MOAs (and FOAs), the Marines are not going to change for you and you should be grateful for that.  It's not easy to let go but it's time to do so.  The Marines understand how to develop Marines, let it happen and everyone benefits (especially your Marine).