This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Surnames: Smith Classification: Military Message Board URL: http://boards.ancestry.com/mbexec/msg/rw/xYB.2ACE/1579 Message Board Post: Marine Corps Pvt. Rusty A. Smith, son of Debbie Smith of Weatherford and Larry W. Smith of Burneyville, recently completed basic training at Marine Corps Recruit Depot, in San Diego, California. The recruit successfully completed 12 weeks of training designed to challenge new Marine recruits both physically and mentally. Smith and fellow recruits began their training at 5 a.m., by running three miles and performing calisthenics. In addition tot he physical conditioning program, Smith spent numerous hours in classroom and field assignments which included learning first aid, uniform regulations, combat water survival, marksmanship, hand-to-hand combat and assorted weapons training. They performed close order drill and operated as a small infantry unit during field training. He and other recruits also received instruction on the Marine Corps' core values - honor, courage and commitment, and what the words mean in guiding personal and professional conduct. Smith and fellow recruits ended the training phase with "The Crucible," a 54-hour team effort, problem solving evolution which culminated with an emotional ceremony in which the recruits were presented the Marine Corps Emblem, and were addressed as "Marines" for the first time since boot camp began. Smith is a 2002 graduate of Turner High School. Source: Marietta Monitor, Love County, December 13, 2002, page 5.