Lance Corporal Jamie Anderson

Fort Defiance, AZ

If you were to take me to Parris Island, I can show you the first set of yellow foot prints I stood upon. I can show you were my rack was, as well as show you where I conquered my fear of heights and water. There are many things I can tell you about. Every Marine can tell you the names of their Drill Instructors. Every Marine has a beloved story. I had yet to earn the title Marine when I felt a part of something greater than myself. My most beloved memory of the Corps happened during Boot Camp. I knew that we were going to be "babysat" by another drill instructor that was not a part of our series. This was to enable some of the Drill Instructors to attend the Marine Corps Ball. I remember that My Senior Drill Instructor had decided that since it was the Marine Corps Birthday, and we were all getting a hot chow, we each could have a piece of cake. I stand at least 5'4 in boots which meant I was toward the little end of the line. So I did not get a slice of cake. Instead the Senior Drill Instructor made a decision that the rest of us who could not have cake would be able to have two cookies instead. I sat down with my hot chow in my lap and looking forward to the two cookies. To this day the cake is something to share with my fellow Marines. But the cookies I share and honor my Sister Marines with.