Fifty-one years ago today, I held up my hand and began the birthing process that resulted in my becoming a U.S. MARINE...:))

HAPPY FREAKIN' BIRTHDAY, MARINE!

NOW DROP AND GIVE ME 50 INSTEAD OF 70!

(Consider it a gift) <|:)~

Thank you to you both!

Processing was done at the Naval Base in Jacksonville, Florida for nine of us entering from Florida.
Had my own horror story, unable to provide the requisite *specimen," having without thinking gone at the hotel before boarding the bus to the base.

Everything else done, there I was, sheepishly pacing back and forth to the water fountain - hoping - waiting - hoping, waiting - and holding up the process for everyone, sitting there glaring at me...(:>(

After the swearing in ceremony, I was given all the meal tickets and placed in charge of the others, going by train to Yemassee, SC.
Debarking there, awaiting us was the 'Royal Chariot' - a totally open-air little train with four cars that chugged us the 23 miles to Port Royal, near Parris Island.

We were met there by our 'handlers,' and for the first time, I heard from onlookers that wonderful compliment accorded us -

BAMS - which = "Beautiful American Marines"

LOL