Senior Riley Shelton has been working toward his dream of becoming a U.S. Marine for the past five months. Every Thursday, he connects with his recruiter for physical training to stay sharp and ready for what comes next.
“To get ready for military training, I started eating a high-protein, low-fat diet with foods like fish and lean pork to help build muscle and stay healthy. I also set up a regular workout routine focused on cardio and calisthenics,” said Shelton.
Over the past five months, Shelton has increased muscle mass, improved endurance, and developed a better mindset.
There are many reasons why enlisting in the military was appealing to Shelton.
“I am drawn to enlistment by the promise of personal growth and the thrill of new challenges. The veteran benefits, such as college tuition assistance and improved healthcare, are key to supporting my ambitions for both education and life beyond service,” said Shelton.
At MEPS, a Military Entrance Processing Station, new enlistees must undergo a two-day physical examination and then sign a contract with the Marines and swear an oath of enlistment. His swearing-in will take place in January. After he is sworn in, he will be sent to boot camp in Parris Island, South Carolina, on June 1 to begin his formal training.
He will officially become a recruit after completing the pre-entry requirements and signing a contract to enlist following his MEPS assessment. Once he has completed boot camp, he plans to be trained in Small Arms maintenance and repair.
“I will work in an armory with all of the firearms. But if I can’t get that MOS (military occupation specialty), I’ll either go artillery or infantry,” said Shelton.
Marine Sergeant John E. Hersey has seen Shelton through his journey to becoming a Marine.
“I think very highly of him and his determination towards his goal of becoming a part of the world’s finest! The Marines are already inherently the hardest branch to be a part of and even to join. I feel as though Shelton’s dedication and mental toughness he showed up with to my office will set him apart from his peers at his high school and give him the ability to go above and beyond in his job field! He’s going to make a great Marine,” said Hersey.
Once his military career is complete, he will have many options in civilian life.
“After serving in the Marines, I plan to choose between pursuing a career in law as a criminal investigator or joining the construction business like the rest of my family. I am still weighing both options and have not made a final decision,” said Shelton.
