Carroll's Empty Nest

Adam - A UNITED SATES MARINE!

Congratulations Adam!! You have earned the title of a UNITED STATES MARINE and we are very proud of you!

MOTTO RUN - Our Frist Time Seeing Adam

The highlight of our trip to Adam's graduation was the Motto Run. This was the first time we saw Adam since he left Kansas City for boot camp in December. The Marines came running out from their barracks in front of all the families. It was very emotional and we all were yelling and even crying. Adam - in the middle with glasses looked great and you can see that he is in the best shape of his life. This run is another of the Marine Corps traditions.

They Just Ran Four and a Half Miles

The new Marines finished their run in front of the Auditorium. Adam is in the middle row, sixth man back. One of the Commanders of the unit spoke to us here. When he addressed the Marines they yelled back a response that was so loud it made the hair on the back of your neck stand up. This is the first time Adam saw us, you could see him smile and that was a great sight to see. It is hard to believe they just ran, they were not out of breath and looked like they could do it again.

Meeting the Drill Instructors

We were treated to a great program in the big auditorium on base. We watched a video about Marine Corp. History and were introduced to all of the drill instructors. We also were treated to a speech by General Salinas the commanding officer for the base and responsible for all the recruiting west of the Mississippi. She was a great speaker and you came out of the auditorium with a greater appreciation for what Adam just went through to become a Marine.