Growing up, I’d dream about making movies. I went to film school, graduated, and since 2003 worked on over 75 films, tv shows, and videos. I am doing what I dreamt of doing when I was 10, and I don’t want to do it anymore. I want to be a Marine.
Why? There are many reasons. I want to serve my country and I want to help keep it safe. I want to work hard at work worth doing. I want to be surrounded by people who care as much about the person standing next to them as they do themselves. I want to feel fulfilled after a hard days work. Finally, I am prepared to make the sacrifices to do whatever must be done to protect and preserve the freedoms we enjoy in our great country.
When I first became interested, I signed onto marines.com in search of more information. I filled out a form requesting more information to be sent to me. The next day I received a call from the Boston OSO (Officer Selections Officer), a Captain. We talked for a few minutes and set up a time for me stop by the office.
On the morning of 17 February, I drove to the Barnes Building in South Boston and met with two Marines. I asked them lots of questions including: what percent seeking commission make it through OCS (Officer Candidates School), how long are deployments, and what benefits would I receive from being a Marine that I wouldn’t receive in another branch. It felt good to have my questions answered. I left the office and told them I’d be in touch. I want to make sure that this decision is right for me before I start the application process.