Marine Corps Pvt. Raymond G. McNitt, Jr., a 2002 graduate of Cashion High School recently completed basic training at Marine Corps Recruit Depot, San Diego.

McNitt successfully completed 12 weeks of training designed to challenge new Marine recruits both physically and mentally.

McNitt and fellow recruits began their training at 5 a.m., by running three miles and performing calisthenics. In addition to the physical conditioning program, McNitt 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.

McNitt and other recruits also received instruction of the Marine Corps' core values - honor, courage and commitment, and what the words mean in guiding personal and professional conduct.

McNitt 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.

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