Congratulations to the new marines of Mike Company!
Transcript
[Announcer] Lance Corporal Manuelito is a two year old, full blooded English Bulldog, born in Barbara, California, on July 9th, 2018. He is named in honor of Sergeant Johnny R. Manuelito, Senior, one of the original 29 Navajo code talkers, who trained in the first all Navajo platoon here at the Depot in 1942. Sergeant Manuelito helped create the code that the Navajo developed at Camp Elliot, now Marine Corps Air Station Miramar. He became an instructor, teaching other Navajo Marines the Navajo code. Later, Sergeant Manuelito participated in the battle of the Iwo Jima, where a Marine signals officers stated, “Had it not been for the code talkers, we would have never taken Iwo Jima.” Lance Corporal Manny continues this tradition of a long line of mascots at MCRD San Diego, dating back to 1939, where Major General Smedley Butler introduced James Jolly Plum Dog as our first mascot here at Marine Corps Recruit Depot. He is being escorted by the Office of Communications, Lance Corporal Grace J. Kindred.
Staff! Fall in. (soldiers marching)
[Drill Sergeant] Staff, halt. Staff, stand clear, face.
[Announcer] Spiritual development plays an important part in the making of a United States Marine. Lieutenant Brian J. McKreeder, Chaplin for United States Navy, will deliver the graduation prayer. Ladies and gentlemen, please rise.
[McKreeder] Let us pray. Gracious one, we are grateful that you will never leave us or forsake us. And for the strength your presence provides to us. For was you told us, when you go out against your enemies, do not be afraid for, I am with you. We are thankful today for these new Marines, for their perseverance. Fear not new Marines, for you are part of the finest fighting force on earth, forged in fire, surrounded by the most capable warriors, and accompanied always by a Holy presence. We are thankful for families and friends, for their love and support. Fear not families and friends of these new Marines, for your freedoms and your lives are forever protected by these brave men. First to fight, most ready, when the nation is least ready. We are thankful for the drill instructors, for their leadership, discipline and practice. We are thankful that they instilled in these young men, honor, courage and commitment. Values that forever remain woven into the fabric of every Marine. You have prepared these men to be guardians of this great nation. Fear not drill instructors, for you made, Marines. Fear not great nation of ours, for your protection lies in good hands. Fear not, for we know O Great One, that you go with us always. We would like to take this opportunity to observe a moment of silence to our fallen I-Company comrade who died one year ago today. Thank you. Amen.
[Announcer] Thank you. Please be seated. Officially formed in 1921, Marine Band San Diego has thrilled countless millions throughout the world with its inspiring renditions of traditional and contemporary music. Each member of the band has completed recruit training, maintains combat skills, and many have been on combat deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan, giving true meaning to the title, Marines Musician. Marine Band San Diego is under the leadership of Chief Warrant Officer 2, Alex Panos, Band Officer, and Master Sergeant Robert Marroquin, Bandmaster. Today the band is led on the march by Gunnery Sergeant James Dempsey, Drum Major, and is under the direction of Chief Warrant Officer 2 Alex Panos. The Commanding General Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego welcomes you to what is an historic event in the life of a Marine, their graduation from boot camp. Approximately 40 weeks each year for the past 99 years, new Marines have departed San Diego for service with units of the Marine Corps around the globe. The primary mission of the Recruit Depot is to provide basic training to recruits enlisted west of the Mississippi, which represents approximately 51% of all male applicants in the Marine Corps each year. The Depot is also home to recruiter school and drill instructor School. All our efforts here are geared towards one end, producing America’s finest fighting force, the United States Marine. This morning, Company M, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, Recruit Training Regiment, will form and march in the parade. Following the pass and review, the graduating Marines will return front and center of the reviewing stand for final dismissal. The staff for today’s parade is comprised of Marines from recruit training regiment. The commander of troops is Captain Thompson S. Engle, Company Commander, Company M, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion. The parade Adjutant is Captain Dominique W. Chumage. Company Executive Officer, Company M, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion.
[Commander] Crowd, attention! (trumpet plays) (indistinct talking)
[Announcer] The marching units are now being called to attention. At the Adjutant’s command, Sal Adjutant’s call will begin today’s parade.
[Commander] Sal Adjutant’s Call! (Marine Band playing)
[Commander] Forward. March. (Marine Band playing)
[Announcer] Marching in today’s formation, are 371 of the graduating Marines from Company M. Recruit trainings comprised of subjects required to produce basic Marines, who function effectively in garrison, are trained in rudimentary individual field and combat skills, and practice the personal and professional traits which distinguish them as Marines. Examples of these traits are: Discipline. The achievement of a state of discipline, which assures respect for authority, instant and willing obedience to orders, and the self reliance to maintain or improve those traits which exemplify a Marine. (Marine Band playing)
Military pairing. Consistently demonstrating military presence and personal awareness, as well as the proper wearing and maintenance of uniforms. (Marine Band plays)
Esprit de corps. Acquiring the common spirit of the Marine Corps that inspires enthusiasm, emotion, pride, initiative, teamwork, aggressiveness, determination, moral courage, integrity, comradery, and the burning desire to work with and for others towards excellence in common goals. (Marine Band plays)
For 244 years, Marines have fought and won whenever and wherever the nation calls. In the harshest conditions, over the most brutal terrain, and against the most formidable enemies, Marines defend the ideals of freedom with grit and tenacity. Though battlefields change and capabilities evolve, history proves that true victory comes from the individual Marine with steel resolve. The drive to overcome any obstacle and the warrior spirit to fight on against all odds. It takes that steadfast faithfulness, Semper Fidelis, to Corps, Country and each other that are balanced throughout our storied legacy. (marching band plays) Marines today remain in combat or are deployed throughout the world, confronting every challenge with courage, loyalty, and faithfulness. They are resolved to be most ready when the nation is least ready. To defend freedom, anytime and anywhere. To stand ready to aid those devastated by natural disasters. To pay tribute to those who have forged our proud legacy and to honor the families and loved ones, who faithfully stand beside us. For the Marines of company M, today marks the end of a 14 week recruit training cycle. They have marched countless miles at Camp Pendleton, and on this parade day, and have been trained, as are all Marines, as basic riflemen. In addition, due to an intensive physical training program, their strength and endurance have doubled since their arrival aboard the Recruit Depot. They are Marines, qualified to take their place in the ranks of the world’s finest fighting organization.
[Commander] A-ten-hut. Turn right. Color, color. (marching band plays)
[Drill Sergeant] About, face!
[Offscreen Male] Jesus.
[Drill Sergeant] About, face! Forward! Company, forward!
[Offscreen Male] I was just thinking that this should cover this for now. (indistinct talking)
[Announcer] The next portion of the ceremony will be the presentation of the colors. Ladies and Gentleman, please rise and remain standing for the playing of our National Anthem. (“You’re a Grand Old Flag”) (drum line plays)
[Drill Sergeant] Present, Arms!
[Announcer] Ladies and Gentlemen, our National Anthem. (“The Star Spangled Banner”) (indistinct commands)
[Announcer] Thank you, please be seated. (indistinct orders) (marching band plays) (marching band plays) (bystanders applaud) (marching band playing) (bystanders clapping)
[Drill Sergeant]
Regiment! Forward, a-ten-hut! Present, arms!
[Announcer] The parade Adjutant now presents the assembled command to the Commander of Troops. (indistinct orders)
[Drill Sergeant] Report!
[Soldier] San Diego, all present or accounted for. (indistinct orders)
[Soldier] D, 3265, all present!
[Drill Sergeant] a-ten-hut, new orders! Marine Corps Recruit Depot, San Diego, California, 4 December, 2020. The officer of the day today is Captain Shaw. The officer of the day tomorrow is Captain Smith. (indistinct) Colonel, United States Marine Corps. (indistinct commands) (marching band plays)
[Announcer] At the command, officers center march. All unit commanders and guidon bearers, march to the front and center of the formation. Historically, it was at this point that commanding officers would issue orders and instructions to the unit commanders. Following this, the unit leaders would face about, return to their units and pass the information along to their Marines. (marching band plays) (indistinct talking) (marching band plays)
[Commander] Officers, halt. (indistinct commands) (marching band plays) (indistinct voices) (marching band plays) (indistinct talking)
Right face. Rest! Stand parade rest.
[Announcer] Ladies and gentleman, the Battalion Commander for 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, Lieutenant Colonel Anthony P. Bariletti.
Good morning ladies and gentleman, friends and family across the internet and distinguished guests. On behalf of the Commanding General of the Marine Corps Recruiting Depot, San Diego, and the Western Recruiting region, Brigadier General Heritage and the Commanding Officer of the Recruit Training Regiment, Colonel Palma. It is my pleasure to welcome you, both physically and virtually, to the graduation ceremony for company M. It’s also my privilege to welcome today’s parade viewing officer, Major Schnarr, whose impressive bio you will hear shortly. Major Schnarr, it’s an absolute honor to have you here today. (bystanders applaud)
Now, excuse me a moment while I address our new Marines just one last time. Good morning, Marines.
Good morning, sir! Oo-rah! That, was pure pride. Pride in yourselves, pride in the title that you have earned. And you should be proud, because amongst you are some of the finest that this nation has to offer. See, when you arrived here, you were young and fit. 18 years of age on average and already in better shape than most of your peers. We make you better. 99% of you are high school graduates, four already have your college degrees. Further, you demonstrated the courage and commitment that few of your peers will muster. When you raised your right hand, took that solemn oath to support and defend the Constitution of the United States, and you’ve come from every corner of the globe. In this case, from four different countries, with some coming from as far as El Salvador and Japan. While others, as close as right here in San Diego. But it was the pursuit of one goal, that brought the 371 of you together. And that goal was to earn the title Marine. Three months ago, you began our nation’s most difficult entry level training, when you arrived on your buses and stepped onto those historic yellow footprints. And over the course of the next 12 grueling weeks, your drill instructors forged into a cohesive team of smartly disciplined, physically fit Marines. Honing your minds and your bodies, until you proved yourselves capable of marching long distances over mountainous terrain, carrying heavy loads on your back with little food or sleep. To always be where you are needed, when you needed to be there to accomplish the mission. And beginning the mindset of being the most ready, when our nation is least ready. And throughout your time here, you were undoubtedly tested, trained, and evaluated in the attributes that make our Marine Corps unique, and then we trained your minds and your bodies, and developed within each of you, a physical and mental toughness that will never quit or give up, despite the odds. We indoctrinated you into our core values of honor, courage, and commitment, building Marines of exemplary character in peace or at war. And we trained you, in battlefield tested, war fighting techniques, so that when America calls, our Marine Corps will always win. And thanks to the highly skilled marksmanship instructors, at Weapons and Field Training Battalion Camp Pendleton, when you arrive at your objective, you are capable of delivering precision live fire, against pinpoint targets at a staggering distance of 500 yards. And finally, we built small unit leaders out of each of you, and tested your ability to decide, act, and communicate with a bias for intelligent action, because that is what the future operating environment demands. And so now having completed the longest, the toughest, and certainly the most demanding entry level training in the world, you now stand ready to carry on the legacy of our Corps, of our Nation’s Naval Expeditionary Force and Readiness, prepared to defend this country against all enemies, foreign and domestic. And when you first got here and we offered you the challenge of becoming a Marine, I know the last thing on your mind was graduation. You were probably thinking, what the heck have I got myself into? And how do I get them to stop yelling at me? Well, you had a lot to learn. You had many miles to run and many challenges to overcome. But you did it, and you stand here today as America’s newest Marines and we’re proud of you. But you should be proud of yourselves, because few can even attempt what you’ve accomplished. And when you eventually get home, people will notice the difference. Your friends will look up to you, and when they ask you how you did it, because they will, make sure you introduce them to your recruiter, because your drill instructors cannot wait to meet your friends. But you must always remember that with this new title, comes new responsibility. The key strength of our Marine Corps is not found in our weapons or equipment, but in the strength, character, and war fighting spirit of the individual Marine. That’s what matters most in combat. And that’s what sets us apart. So remember that and hold onto it, because the legacy of our Corps, not only first to fight, but to always win our Nation’s battles, belongs to you now, for safe keeping. Because the world is a dangerous and chaotic place. And that’s why we have you. So always remember that that Eagle, Globe, and Anchor, we placed in your hands on top of the Reaper, represents 245 years of Marines that have come before us. And you must always endeavor to be worthy of that legacy and protect what you’ve earned. So on behalf of the officers, the drill instructors and support personnel of the Marine Corps Recruit Depot, San Diego, it’s my privilege to be the first to wish you fair winds and following seas, Semper Fidelis Marines, and welcome to the Corps. (bystanders clapping)
[Announcer] Now taking his position in the reviewing area is today’s parade reviewing officer, Major Jeremy W. Schnarr. He is accompanied by Lieutenant Colonel Anthony P. Bariletti, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, Recruit Training Regiment.
[Commander] Regiment, a-ten-hut. Present, a-ten-hut. Present, arms! (indistinct commands)
[Announcer] Major Jeremy Schnarr, enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1997 and graduated from Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island, South Carolina in 1998. He served as a small computer systems specialist for his enlistment and then attended Indiana University where he received his Bachelor’s of Science in Kinesiology. After accepting his commission in November 2007, Major Schnarr completed the Basic School and reported to Basic Communications Officer Course, Quantico, Virginia in 2008. Major Schnarr has served in a variety of challenging villas, in multiple commands to include serving as Assistant Communications Officer and Regimental Communications Officer for Combat Logistics Regiment 2, Marine Corps Base, Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. Lead Series Commander, Company Executive Officer and Company Commander for the recruit processing company and the 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, Recruit Training Regiment, Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island, South Carolina. Company Commander and Battalion Operations Officer for Headquarters and Support Battalion, Marine Corps Base, Camp Pendleton, California. In July 2018, Major Schnarr received orders to the 3rd Marine Expeditionary Force, Okinawa, Japan, where he served as the G-6 Future Operations Officer. In July 2020, Major Schnarr received orders to Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, where he is currently serving as the 3rd Recruit Training Battalion Executive Officer. Major Schnarr’s personal awards include the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal with three gold stars in lieu of fourth award. And the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal. Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome, Major Jeremy W. Schnarr. (crowd clapping)
[Commander] A-ten-hut! Right, face. (single drummer plays)
March. (marching band plays)
[Announcer] More than a million Marines have been trained here in the past 99 years, and have departed San Diego for combat in conflicts around the world. Including places whose names are immediately associated with Marine courage and dedication. Names such as, Guadalcanal, Tarawa, Iwo Jima, Husan, Ichon, Chosin Reservoir, Kaesong, Hue City, Lebanon, Grenada, Panama, Kuwait, Somalia, Fallujah, Iraq, Morzo, Afghanistan, and our most current operations worldwide. This parade deck, is rich in history and traditions and no marine trained here ever forgets it’s sights and sounds. Ladies and gentleman, the Commander of Troops Captain Thompson S. Engel, Company Commander and the Battalion Staff. (crowd clapping) (marching band plays) Series 3261, Series Commander, Captain William J.Cryster. Platoon 3261, Senior Drill Instructor, Sergeant Jacob A. Belmont. (bystanders clapping) (indistinct voices) (marching band plays) Armor Platoon 3262, Senor Drill Instructor, Staff Sergeant Jacob E. Jean. (crowd clapping) Platoon 3263, Senior Drill Instructor, Staff Sergeant Paul P. Packer. (crowd clapping) (marching band plays)
The Regimental Color Guard is led by Regimental Color Sergeant, Drill Instructor, Sergeant Damonte E. Polk. Series 3265, Series Commander, Captain Stewart J. Follett. (crowd clapping) Platoon 3265, Senior Drill Instructor, Staff Sergeant Eduardo A. Veliz. Also from Platoon 3265, is the Company High Shooter, Private Ryan A. Christensen. Platoon 3266, Senior Drill Instructor, Staff Sergeant Devin Soria. Also from Platoon 3266 is the most physically fit Marine, Private First Class Devin P. Bailey. (marching band playing) (indistinct commands)
[Announcer] Platoon 3267, Senior Drill Instructor, Staff Sergeant Joseph M. Dino. (crowd clapping)
The Marine’s Hymn has a history dating back to 1859. It is a long-standing tradition for Marines to face the direction of the music and stand at attention when it is heard. It is now directed that all Marines present and who have served honorably, sing the words to the first verse as Marine Band San Diego performs “The Marine’s Hymn”. (“The Marine’s Hymn”)
Thank you. Please be seated. (indistinct voices)
The Marine Corps uniqueness and strength as a elite fighting force is directly attributable to the magnificent efforts of the drill instructors and company officers who train and supervise the recruits. The distinct qualities of spirit and discipline, the heart and soul of every Marine have been developed, nurtured, and ingrained in recruits through their observance and relationship with their drill instructors and officers. Recruit training is the very foundation of the Corps. Each year recruit training provides thousands of America’s finest young men and women with the basic knowledge and skills to function in a profession characterized by it’s own set of high values and soft standards. The most important thing we do in the Marine Corps is make Marines. The individual Marine is the Corps. This is what we do here. For the Marines graduating today, the long arduous journey of the last 14 weeks was a small step into the future of the Marine Corps. As they prepare to fill the ranks of our Corps, they do so with unquestionable support for the high ideals and standards of the United States of America and the United States Marine Corps. Although Company M prepares for their final dismissal from boot camp today, their initial training is not over. Soon after graduation, they will report to the School of Infantry, Camp Pendleton, California, where they will continue to be trained to serve as an effective member of a Marine Rifle Squad. The intense, initial training that every marine undergoes is designed to instill the fundamental premise that every Marine is a rifleman. (indistinct commands)
[Announcer] Ladies and gentlemen, at this time, we would like to introduce to you the Marines responsible for ensuring the success of the difficult transition required to become a Marine. The company Commander is Captain Thompson S. Engel. The company First Sergeant is First Sergeant Ricky L. Broadway. Ladies and gentlemen, please join me in a round of applause for the company staff of Company M. (crowd clapping)
The next portion of the ceremony will be the traditional function of retiring the guidons.
[Commander] A-ten-hut! March!
The guidons have been carried by the platoons throughout recruit training and are being retired to symbolize the disbanding of platoons. All similar units in the Marine Corps carry such guidons, which identify the units and are a source of pride to each individual member. Note, that the honor of carrying these guidons is bestowed upon those Marines who displayed outstanding leadership qualities, motivation, and character, and were selected as the platoon honor graduates. The platoon honor graduates compete for the titles of series and company honor graduates. They are considered the top Marines graduating today and have demonstrated the highest potential for future leadership and responsibility in the Marine Corps.
[Commander] Present, Guidon. Order, Guidon.
[Announcer] The guidons will now be returned to the drill instructors.
[Commander] Forward! March! (marching band plays) (indistinct commands) (marching band plays)
[Announcer] The honor graduate for Platoon 3261 and also the Company Honor Graduate is Lance Corporal Aaron Y. Kim, from Claremont, California. Lance Corporal Kim is also the recipient of the Jesse Fuller award for his outstanding, meritorious performance while in recruit training. The honor graduate for Platoon 3262 is Private First Class Arnez Rush from Saint Louis, Missouri. The honor graduate for Platoon 3263 is Private First Class Gabriel V. Canales from back in California. The honor graduate for Platoon 3265 is Private First Class Michael A. Tinsley, Jr from West Plains, Missouri. The honor graduate for Platoon 3266 and also the series honor graduate is Private First Class Tyson D. Sonnek from North St. Paul, Minnesota. And the honor graduate for Platoon 3267 is Private First Class Daniel S. Brierley from Santa Cruz, California. Ladies and gentleman, the honor men of Company M. (crowd clapping)
[Commander] About! March! Step! Halt! About, face!
[Offscreen Male] Company First Sergeant.
[Announcer] The Company First Sergeant will now give the commands to the senior drill instructors to dismiss their platoons. Needless to say, this will be the most welcome command they have received throughout recruit training.
Senior Drill Instructors! Dismiss your platoons! (indistinct commands)
[Recruits] Oo-rah!
[Announcer] Ladies and Gentleman, this concludes today’s ceremony.