Congratulations Pvt. First Class Conner!

As I have posted before, Conner is part of the Young Marines program. He started the program last January and went through a rigorous 13 week boot camp every Saturday from 7:45-2:00. The bootcamp included physical fitness training and tests, written tests, verbal tests on rank structure, the Pledge of Allegience, the National Anthem, the Young Marines Obligation and Creed, etc. He had to complete these things and more to graduate from the bootcamp. After graduating bootcamp, he earned the rank of "Private". Then their unit kind of "died" for lack of a better word. Their unit commander moved to Texas and they had to find a new commander. Well, their new commander, Sgt. Taylor is VERY GUNGHO!! He came in telling us he wanted to get the promotions done that were due and really get the unit "motivated" (this is a word the Young Marines hear from Sgt. Taylor VERY often!!) Well, he has done just that! This past week he did make those promotions with more to come. Just so you have an idea of what is required to earn Private First Class, they are listed below. I am very proud of Conner and his accomplishment!!

This is a picture of the chevrons he earned and now gets to proudly wear on his uniform.

PFC Requirements
Required time in previous grade:
Graduate from bootcamp

Citizenship:
Memorize Pledge of Allegiance to flag
Memorize Young Marine Obligation
Know U.S. President and Vice President

Leadership:
Show willingness to accept responsibility
Military courtesy
Understand billets

Physical Fitness:
Pass PFT with score of 200

School:

Be attentive polite and obedient

Home and Outside Activities:

Respect parents and elders at all times.

Use 'sir' or 'ma'am.'

Personal Habits:
Have clean body and teeth.

Hair and fingernails clean and neatly trimmed.

Close order drill:
Be able to execute all facing movements and column movements.

Other subjects:
Pass standardized PFC exam for age group with 70% or better.

Exam will include questions identified in this study guide.

The Young Marines program is open to boys and girls ages 8-18 (I think). If you think your child might benefit or be interested in joining or you know someone who might be interested in joining the Young Marines, please be sure to visit this website http://www.youngmarines.com/unitlocator.htm to find a unit located in your area. Registrations are going on now for the next bootcamp.