Posted on 05/30/2006 4:24:21 PM PDT by SandRat
Story Identification #: 2006529181437
Story by Cpl. Lameen Witter
NEW YORK (May 28, 2006) -- In the midst of Time Square’s bright lights and heavy traffic, a few Marines came together to celebrate what is said to be the best time in a Marine’s career May 28.
Reserve Cpl. Jose A. Maldonado, was promoted to sergeant 9 months after he came off active-duty status. The New Jersey native said he wanted to have his ceremony in New York’s famed square in keeping with the spirit of Fleet Week, the city's annual celebration of the sea services.
“Getting sergeant feels great. It makes me want to go back and get some,” said Maldonado.
Reserve Gunnery Sgt. Alex Kitsakos, also a New York police officer, coordinated the event. Kitsakos has known Maldonado for years. His son and Maldonado have been friends since boyhood and Kitsakos said he was proud to see Maldonado get promoted.
“He’s like another son to me,” Kitsakos said.
Currently, Maldonado uses the skills he learned as an active duty wireman in the job he holds at Verizon.
Cpl. Jose A. Maldonado, an inactive reservist, was promoted to sergeant in Time Square during the 2006 Fleet Week celebration 9 months after he came off active-duty status. Photo by: Cpl. Lameen Witter
GySgt. Alex Kitsakos, a Marine reservist and New York police officer shakes the hand of newly promoted Sgt. Jose A. Maldonada. Kitsakos watched Maldonado grew from a young child and influenced his choice to become a Marine. Photo by: Cpl. Lameen Witter
Marine Promotion PING
Congratulations!
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