[SlowToady]

I have five Marine buddies, two finished HS early so they could join up and finally live their dreams. Ever since we were young, like 8 or 9, all they ever wanted to be was Marines. After a long fight with the School Board, they were allowed to walk during graduation in their dress blues. The school didn't want to let them, can you believe that? Two stand up young men serving their country, knowing exactly what they want to do; they should have praised them as role models. What a sight to see at graduation, they both got long standing ovations from the entire (very large) crowd. You could see the pride radiating from them.

Two of my other friends, both very good friends, myself and the two Marines above grew up with them, joined this year after deciding that college wasn't for them. One is a Combat Engineer and the other is a Mechanic. Last I heard, both are wanting to get sent to Iraq, to fight for their country.

My other friend is a year older than us, and joined after he graduated HS with 3 of his friends. They signed together, went to boot together, and went to Iraq together. My friend got shot, but lived, and two of his friends, whom he convinced to join, were killed in action. They were killed fighting for intangiable things in a country far from home that most of us couldn't find on a map, and don't know dick about. The country song "American Soldier" reminds me of them.

One of the truest and best friends I've ever had just left on Saturday for Army Basic Training, and is completely stoked. God made him to be a Warrior, I have no doubt about it. He wants to go SpecOps, Rangers or Delta; I'm sure he'll succed at that also. He joined completely out of love for his country, he doesn't need the signing bonus, or the college money, or the money. He's a musical genius, and no academic dummy. I don't think I've ever seen him more excited and happy than when he left for Basic.

Sorry for rambling so long, but the armed forces have a soft spot with me. I'm considering joining on the Delayed Entry Program, but who knows....

Sincere thanks to those Pelicans that have served, or are currently serving, in the United States Armed Forces.