Monday, April 19, 2010 2:29 pm

Marine Corps Pvt. Christopher J. Tounzen, son of Lisa A. and James W. Tounzen of Woodbury, Tenn., recently completed 12 weeks of basic training at Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island, S. C. designed to challenge new Marine recruits both physically and mentally.

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

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

Tounzen and fellow recruits ended the training phase with The Crucible, a 54-hour, team evolution culminating in an emotional ceremony in which recruits are presented the Marine Corps Emblem, and addressed as "Marines" for the first time in their careers.