Rooker Completes Marine Basic Training

Joshua Taylor Rooker recently completed basic training at Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island, SC. Josh successfully completed 12 weeks of training designed to challenge new Marine recruits both physically and mentally.

Josh and his fellow recruits began their training each day at 5 a.m., by running three miles and performing calisthenics. In addition to the physical conditioning program, Josh 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. Josh also received instructions on the Marine Corps' core values - honor, courage and commitment, and what the words mean in guiding personal and profession conduct.

Josh and fellow recruits ended the training phase with the Crucible, a 54 hour team effort and problem solving evolution.

Josh is a 2009 graduate of Cannon County High School.