On this day, 12 years ago, I planted my feet on a set of yellow footprints and embarked on a journey to become a United States Marine.
It has been a wild ride ever since. Between the Marine world and the civilian world, God has had me on a journey filled with adventures, discovery, hurt, fun, and the unexpected. All for His glory. That has been reflected on this blog throughout the years and it has been a wild ride indeed.
Who knew that 12 years later (today) I would be a Warrant Officer in the Marine Corps. Shoot, I didn’t even know the Warrant Officer ranks existed 12 years ago! It is by the grace of God I made it to this rank and had the good fortune of meeting impactful leaders along the way. To bring things full circle, I think of my first Platoon Sergeant, Sgt Jones. 12 years later he is my leader once again and we are both serving in the Warrant Officer ranks back in the same unit. The Marine Corps is a small world.
I am thankful to all those I’ve met on this wild ride. I am proud of the Marines I’ve worked with or had the pleasure of leading. I love the brotherhood that is the Marine Corps. Over halfway to twenty years is unfathomable. Yet, here we are. I have always had this idea that my service would span to 20 years. With the passing years and understanding of the Marine Corps, I have chosen to stay in as long as two things remain true:
- The Marine Corps will have me
- It makes sense
God’s got me on a path that He is glorified in. I look forward to continuing this wild ride alongside my brothers and sisters in the Marine Corps and in Christ. Cheers to another 8 years and to 248 years of the United States Marine Corps. Happy Birthday [next month], Marines!
Until next time: Be strong. Love God. Love others.
rejoice.always
The Wild Ride 