Re: Marine Corps Recruiting
I definitely have a spot in this thread as I am currently processing with the Marines.
I am 21 years old. Nearly finished with college, and in great physical shape. I picked up shooting when I was 18, and and plan to incorporate that into Marine life. At 21 I know I do not know everything, nor do I claim to, but I do know what I want out of my life.
I have gone to MEPS, recieved a 95 AFQT and 129 GT on the ASVAB, but was sadly DQ'd based on minor unilateral hearing loss. I sought an audiologist, did further testing, received exemplary results, and worked to get letters of recommendation from him, as well as several Marine Corps officers ranking from Captain and up.
I am currently waiting on a waiver to be approved, but still continueing to train physically, along with school, and two jobs.
Presently I am up to 84 PU in 2 mins, 85ish situps in 2 mins, 3 mile run in 17:50ish, and 21 pullups non stop.
My recruiters have been very understanding and down to earth. Never have I received the "WE NEED YOU" aspect that so many recruiters have stereotypically been given. They have always been very up front with me, BS-free, and understand that I'm not a 17 year old kid in high school with no direction in life.
If the waiver is denied, and there is a possibility that it will be, I will not allow that to hinder my pursuit to serve.
Tikka'd, if you do decide to serve, do not go in so without giving your utmost dedication. There is no room for halfheartedness in any branch, especially the Marines.
I had three uncles who served during Vietnam, and thank God, all three came back. Upon making this decision I immediately spoke to them inquiring for advice, spoke to their friends who served as well. Talk to everyone you can. Of everyone I've talked to, all said they would do it again given the chance, but just be prepared mentally and physically for what may come.