The Exuberant Accountant - Scott Heintzelman

I recently had the privilege of attending the swearing in ceremony for a family member as he was joining the Marines (The Few, The Proud, The Marines).  He was being shipped off for several months of basic training at Parris Island, which has a motto of “We Make Marines.”  I can only imagine how difficult basic training must be for a young marine recruit. 

During the ceremony, these young recruits swear to defend the constitution and our country from enemies both foreign and domestic.  The also swear to obey the orders of our President and their commanding officer.  I still get a lump in my throat as I think of this sacrificial leadership.  As you watch the parents of these young recruits, you also realize how much they sacrifice.  In one sense, they are so proud of the decision by their child to serve, and yet at the same time they wonder what the future holds for their child.  If you ever get the chance to go to a MEPS (Military Entrance Processing Station) and watch the swearing in ceremony, I encourage you to do so.  You will have a greater appreciation of the sacrifices made to live in a free country.