Tuesday, June 9

This is where we went (with Jere and Kristen) to observe Jesse’s swearing in ceremony into the USA Marines.

Instructions for the time of ceremony was not clear other than if it is held inside, Cerwin and I could not attend, if outside we could. We were prepared to stay in the car if necessary. I think Cerwin and I were the only grandparents there, because most people thought only two people were permitted to attend. While we were on the way, Jesse messaged Jere, saying it was going to be outside.

It was a solemn ceremony and everyone replied, “Yes, Sir, or No, Sir” when asked questions. Except when the commissioned officer asked, “Is anyone nervous?” Each recruit replied, “No, Sir.” The officer replied with a smile and tongue in cheek, “You are lying!” 🙂

Before the ceremony, the office mentioned that if anyone had second thoughts about entering the military they should leave now. Everyone stayed. We are not sure why the two on the far right were asked to step aside for the ceremony, but when googling that, it seems that they were doing a different kind of swearing in and stepped aside to make that clear and orderly for the officer. This was for a variety of military branches.

They each promised to be faithful to our country. Jesse is second to right in the front row.

We had two minutes to say goodbye to him. After hugging him, we gave the rest of the time to Jere and Kristen.

This picture makes me cry every time I look at it. I see agony at the separation and pride that he is being so brave and strong.

They received a last message from Jesse when at an airport – about midnight.

At 3:01 am Jesse called with a scripted message letting them know they were at Paris Island, SC, and that he will write in 8-10 days. Everyone else was calling their family at the same time – with the same scripted message – so it was a very loud and short. They were expecting this call – anytime between 1 and 4 am. The next time they hear his voice will be in September.

If anyone could be prepared for his boot camp, it is Jesse. He began this journey about three years ago (he was 15) when Jere took him to a recruiting office. Jesse had two pages of questions. The recruiter said he never had anyone come with so many questions. It was a bit comforting to hear a recruiter say he is one of the most emotionally mature recruits she has met. It was also good to hear that attending church on Sunday is required. They have a choice of a variety of churches.

It is his dream to be an officer and fly a helicopter. There are many years until then as there is boot camp, mechanic training, college, and more training.

He and we are fully aware that God can move that dream into another direction. It is comforting to know that God will go ahead of Jesse, behind him, and surround him with wisdom and peace.