Marine Corps Pvt. Timothy Arnold, Pfc. Joan Najjar and Pvt. Jimmy Saint-Jean recently earned the title of United States Marine after graduating from recruit training at Marine Corps Recruit Depot in Parris Island, S.C.
For 13 weeks, they stayed committed during some of the world’s most demanding entry-level military training in order to be transformed from civilian to Marine instilled with pride, discipline and the core values of honor, courage and commitment. Training subjects included close-order drill, marksmanship with an M-16A4 rifle, physical fitness, martial arts, swimming, military history, customs and courtesies.
One week prior to graduation, they endured the Crucible, a 54-hour final test of recruits’ minds and bodies. Upon completion, recruits are presented the Marine Corps emblem and called Marines for the first time.
Arnold is the son of Lisa and Garry Arnold of Loxahatchee and a 2012 graduate of Seminole Ridge High School.
Najjar is the son of Leila and Nader Najjar of Wellington and a 2012 graduate of Palm Beach Central High School.
Saint-Jean is the son of Altagrace Saint-Jean of West Palm Beach and a 2011 graduate of Palm Beach Central High School in Wellington.
