Why I am Joining the Marine Corps

WHY I WANT TO BECOME A MARINE OFFICER

Trained as an educator, I have chosen to spend my life making a difference for the next generation. I want to equip individuals with the tools to make their lives better as well as the lives of their family and community.

The Marine Corps is truly doing something about the problems facing the local community and the world today. I want be involved in the challenge and opportunities in providing help with issues that are facing the world. As an officer in the Marine Corps, I can make a difference.

When I look at the atrocities around the world, I feel helpless. I see the discouragement in Iraq. The defiance in North Korea. The desire of Iran and Syria to transform the middle east. The dangerous direction the president of Venisuala is taking his country. China and their possible arms race. I see these things and I want do whatever I can to make this world a better place. I know God is in control, but I also know he uses us as His tools.I do not want my children to have to face the dangers we are currently facing, yet, I know there will always be 'wars and rumors of wars.'

Yesterday, I submitted a rough application to the Officer Selection Officer for the Marine Corps Reserve. Please pray for me. I want to know without any doubt that this is God's will if I am to do this. I know I can't make it without Him; I don't want to make it without Him.

This week I must tell my boss my intension and ask for a letter of reference. I pray that she will be understanding as this is one of the hardest decisions I have made. I am a loyalist. It's hard for me to leave when I know others expect me to stay. I hate to cause any disappointment or inconvenience.

So, why am I even thinking about joining? I am a wife, I have a stable job, I am involved within the community and church. It seems crazy to uproot and leave. Yet, military service has always been in the back of my mind. I thought about joining the Air Force Reserve when I graduated high school. I didn't because I started working and was set on going to college. I loved college and know MNU is exactly where I was supposed to be at that time in my life.

I was reminded about my desire to serve when Aaron began looking into the military 2 years ago. That desire to serve my country and community has grown as I have been involved with Aaron's military activities and commitments. I have been praying about this for some time now and have asked that God remove this desire if it is not His will. I know I will regret this decision if this is a result of my own selfish intentions. I am still asking for God's guidance and wisdom about this matter.

Submitting an application is just the first step. I have to send in references, pass a medical exam, and stand out as a superior candidate. I have no commitment up until the point of commissioning. I know this will only come to pass if God is involved. The selection board meets in four months. If I am not selected, I do not plan to try again. I would be 27 by the time the next board meets. If I am selected, I will serve my country, my family, and my God to the best of my abilities. Semper Fi.