Oklahomans Become Marines

Each year, thousands of Oklahomans enlist hoping to become one of the few and the proud.  News On 6 anchor Latoya Silmon traveled to the Marine Recruit Depot in San Diego for a rare look into what it takes to make a Marine.

The journey is a grueling 13 week process that tests whether recruits have the honor, courage and commitment it takes to be a United States Marine.  The News On 6 caught up with some recruits from Green Country who hope to make the grade.

Class was in session.

"Once they come out of here, they know exactly what they're capable of doing and the willingness and drive to succeed," said Sgt. Jeremy Shea.

But, getting there isn't easy.

"It's been one of the most challenging things I've ever done in my life.  First couple of weeks, I think everybody regretted coming here, and so did I." said Ryan Arnold.

But, Ryan Arnold says there was no turning back.  He left Tulsa for a reason.

"I was at a dead end in my life and I just needed a change," said Ryan Arnold.

Others just wanted to belong.

"I wanted to go places.  I wanted to do things that I think I will never do if I stayed in Tulsa.  I just want to be a part of group you know," said Jose Coronado.

James Smith, a recruit from Braggs, needed to stay true to his word.

"I made a promise to my grandfather," said James Smith.

And so, they checked their fears and egos at the door.

"Being told what to do and when to do it, that's new for me," said James Smith.

But, that's the life of a recruit.  20,000 of them are living it in different stages at the Marine Recruit Depot in San Diego.  In each order, step and obstacle there's a lesson.

"Honor, courage, commitment and just wanting to do something that's going to improve yourself and also defend our nation at the same time," said Staff Sgt. Todd Jones.

Each Marine hopeful is put to the test.

The true mark of Marine is if he's a good marksman.  Their goal is to shoot a target 500 yards away.

"We're only looking for the best and that's the only thing we're looking for," said Staff Sgt. Todd Jones.

The strong make it here, after a final exam called the crucible.  It's a 54 hour endurance test.  Some visiting educators from Oklahoma got to try the first part of it out.  Kelin Bradley, a Nathan Hale grad, just finished the real thing.

 "Once you're done no matter how bad you're hurting, I mean, that was worth it all the pain, the sweat and the tears.  It was definitely worth it," said PFC Kelin Bradley.

Success is to make it to the moment when their drill instructors pin them United States Marines.

"The feeling when you get handed that Eagle Globe and Anchor, they play I'm Proud to be an American and tears just start running down your face because you've learned a new appreciation for it," said PFC Mitchell Williams.

In a week, they'll enjoy all the pomp and circumstance that comes with their accomplishments.  Every Friday a company graduates.  This week it's Kilo Company's turn.

"It feels very great.  Probably the best thing I've been able to say in a long time," said Bob Devisser.

 New Marines get to return home for 10 days before training resumes.

The United States Marine Corps sponsored The News On 6's trip to San Diego.