Never say never

[T. Staggs19]

I have always been a firm believer that im gonna do anything that I put my mind to, and my mind is set on the U.S.M.C. The problems that I have faced have been like mountains to me, but im almost over these hurdles due to my sheer hardheadedness. As a 15 yr old me and my friends did a lot of stupid things, i never believed that they would bar me from enlistment. It has been 1 1/2 yrs since I found out about not qualifying, and this entire time i have been unyeilding in my efforts. Ultimately it took my asking congress to assist me in the enlistment process to get any progress in enlistment. Of course at about that time Mr. Murphy decided to pay me a visit with a class 3 Ac joint injury (severe shoulder injury). It took 3 months in a sling before i had even basic use of my shoulder, and the doctors said i could forget ever going into the service or even doing pushups. Now I do 100 pushups a night ( with pain on every one) and have passed MEPs with flying colors. I am currently awaiting approval from the Marines for enlistment. My point is simple, DONT EVER allow people to belittle you by telling you that you are incapable of doing something. Never say IMPOSSIBLE because if you want it bad enough then nothings impossible , it just requires HARD WORK and sacrifice.........

and a word of wisdom to all Poolees STAY OUT OF TROUBLE, its not worth the pain.

[jinelson]

Congratulations on your hard work I hope that your approval comes through. What otstanding words that ring so true. OORAH!!! get some and git r dun.

[Sgted]

Words of wisdom and motivation.
Good luck.

[T. Staggs19]

I greatly appreciate the responses, I havent had much support in this matter. Looking back as a 19 yr old it amazes me how stupid I was.

[Osotogary]

There is something about a person who allows him or herself the opportunity to correct/better themselves and follows through with that opportunity, however large , however small, at any age.
Often times , this evolution of sorts, is never known to others; it just takes place internally.
You have chosen to bring your personal battle to the forefront as a learning tool for others. It was good reading, quite inspirational and relative to most of the folks that read your thoughts.
Good work! 100 pushups at night! That's some social life you have there. LOL (Just kidding)
My best to you and your quest.

[MarineMom5]

Your motivation and determination can be a model for others. You have shown the inner characteristics consistant with that of a United States Marine. Good Luck with your approval, and please let us all know your results.

[T. Staggs19]

I just thought that ya'll should know that I was contacted by a Marine liason in Washington and was told that I should expect confirmation in about 3-4 weeks, due to hurricane Katrina things have been slowed down. He told me that it was only a matter of waiting and that my approval was imminent. I thank all of you for the support. Semper'Fi

[CHOPPER7199]

CONGRATS YOUNG MAN, NOW GO GET THET TITLE.

[CrazyBrave83]

Hardcore.

[themom]

I am sending your post to my son. He finally made it through boot camp after numerous MRP stints only to be put in the rehab platoon at Camp Pendleton due to a broken bone from MCT. He is rather blue and starting to get ambivelent about being a Marine. Hopefully, your words will serve as encouragement to him!

Thanks!!

[T. Staggs19]

I have found that when you are injured then you have a sense of helplessness that knaws at you, Im sure that your son is just frustratred at his situation. Just remind him that he will recover and that his resolve will pull him through in every situation that he faces. If you havent had the opportunity to read the article "Standing On His Own 2 Feet" then I believe that it would serve as a better source of inspiration than my situation. That is TRUE dedication.
I greatly appreciate the response...

[themom]

Originally posted by T. Staggs19
If you havent had the opportunity to read the article "Standing On His Own 2 Feet" then I believe that it would serve as a better source of inspiration than my situation. That is TRUE dedication.


Would this be about the first amputee to return to duty in Iraq? I did send him that one while he was in MRP during bootcamp.

[T. Staggs19]

Yes Ma'am

[themom]

Yes, that is one awesome story!