12.29.2005
It's been a couple of weeks since I posted. To start, went to my brother's Marine Corps graduation. After three months of writing, Three hours on a plane, 1500 miles - to see him make a huge change in his life. He's always wanted to be a Marine since he was a little boy. The Depot is beautiful. Exactly what you imaging California to look like. We stayed at a hotel only 2 miles from the Depot. We took congrats posters for the Moto Run (Motivational Run). We got there early enough to see his Platoon practicing for graduation, around 6:30 am. Everyone lined up for the Moto Run. We got to see them line up and sound off for the run. The run lasted about 30 minutes, a total of 4 miles. After the run we all went to the food court to buy Challenge coins, company t-shirts and food. Shortly after, we headed toward the stands to see the EGA ceremony. This ceremony is where the recruit gets his Eagle, Globe and Anchor and is called a marine for the first time. After, the new Marine is released to his family for a few hours of on base leave. It was very emotional. I was so proud. We couldn't believe he looked so trim! We took lots of pictures. The first thing he did was rush to the electronics store to buy a PSP. He was very jumpy. He didn't want to see any more of the depot or do anymore shopping, instead he wanted to sit and talk, and eat! He told me all about bootcamp - lots of funny stories! I couldn't believe how different he was. Very focused, knowledgeable and articulate. It was great to see his sense of humor. It seemed like the 5 hours of leave wasn't enough. We watched proudly as he walked back to the barracks to report for chow.