Boot Camp

By Jim Aust

Boot camp felt like we had been dropped onto a different planet and would not get off.  Only 10 weeks, but each day was eternity.

I’ve heard that going through Marine Corps boot camp is an experience worth a million dollars, but no one would take a million dollars to do it again.

I’d agree with that.

I believe that the two years I spent in the Marines were the most formative of my life.  I was tested physically and mentally in ways that I haven’t been prior or since.  But I look at is as more survival than achievement.

Ironically, my stay at Camp LeJeune meant exposure to carcinogens in the drinking water.  At age 68 I was diagnosed with leukemia which the Marine Corps acknowledges as service related.  I’m now on VA disability.

But, all in all, I wouldn’t change my choice to serve my country.