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.

Ready for Family Day Liberty

Adam is in the middle - third one back in glasses. this was the final formation before he got 5 hours of liberty with us on base.

Proud Parents

We finally get to hug Adam after not seeing him for 13 weeks.

Listening to 13 weeks of Voice Mail

Adam is getting in touch with his friends after not talking to them for the past 13 weeks while his brothers take advantage of Adams discounts and tax free shopping at one of the stores on base.

Marine Musume

Adam showed us around the Marine Musume on base during family day. Here he shows Sheila, Jason and Tylor wepons used during the Vietman War.

Dinner at the Beach

Sheila, Donna, Mike and I enjoyed dinner at the beach. We had a great sunset to watch. This is another reason why I love San Diego

Flag Ceremony

The morning Flag Ceremony the day of Graduation

Platoon's Marching at Graduation

Group Photo

Adam is surrounded by his very proud Family!!!

Jason Heads out with the Boggie Board

Hurry Up Tylor - I'm Cold

Collin is looking out to the ocean to see if his cousin Tylor can remember how to surf.

Did You See Me Surfing!!

Tylor finally rode the big wave! After seven years away from the beach he was able to get back in the water and go surfing!

Ready for a Game of Putt Putt

Jason, Sheila and Adam get ready for a serious game of putt - putt

Where Did Everyone Go

Mike is either in first or last.....

Come on Sheila - It will be a SMOOTH RIDE

Mike and Sheila decided to take a ride in the flight simulator after watching Adam and Jason have a turn. No one got sick, but if it were a real dog fight in the sky I think the Navy would be short one plane.

Future Pilot

Hey Dad can we get one of these?

Has anyone seen Maverick or Goose??

Jason, Mike and Caiden are sitting in the flight planning room (I'm sure it has another name but I don't remember it) on the USS Midway Aircraft Carrier.

Mikes Birthday Party

Sheila is very excited that Mike received a Jug of beer for his Birthday. Mike and I were more excited about the Banana Split Birthday Cake! It was our favorite growing up.

Cars! Our Favorite Movie

Caiden and Adam relaxing after a big day!