Posted on 04/09/2009 4:18:36 PM PDT by SandRat
MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C., April 9, 2009 The Marine Corps is relatively small compared to the other branches of service. But for a former high school principal here, it couldnt get any smaller.
After joining the Marine Corps Reserve in 1996, the Drexel, N.C., native began a career as a high school teacher. He soon became an assistant principal, as well as wrestling and football coach, at Watauga High School in Boone, N.C. In July 2004, Oliver became the principal of Freedom High School in Morganton, N.C., and there he made an impression on a student who is now Marine Corps Pfc. William M. Chester, a vehicle operator for the 2nd MLG. He did a lot to help me out, the 19-year old Marine said. I dont think he realizes how much he did for me. I was kind of a troubled kid in high school, but was able to turn my life around. Oliver has met at least two other Freedom High School students since he reactivated in January. Its kind of strange when Im walking through the gymnasium and I hear someone say, Mr. Oliver? What are you doing here? he said. Oliver also has met Marine Corps 2nd Lt. Michael J. Bradley, a platoon commander with the logistics groups landing support company, who graduated from Freedom High before Olivers tenure there. You know, its always nice to see someone whos from the same area, Bradley said. Oliver said that being an educator is similar to being a Marine, and serving in both capacities gives him a greater appreciation for young Americans who choose to serve their country. Whether youre taking care of your teachers and students or your Marines and sailors, your primary mission is to take care of the people you serve with, he said. Its really encouraging as a Marine, an educator and an officer to see the patriotism in the youth of America. (Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Meghan J. Canlas serves with the 2nd Marine Expeditionary Force.) |
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