Dateline June 2007: Montgomery County Maryland.
Joshua Anderson, an upstanding citizen of Montgomery Village, Maryland graduated from Watkins Mill High School in June of 2007. Joshua took the long road to graduation, including a few detours.
The turning point in Joshua's life was provided by his uncle Dave (among others - but it was Dave who finally convinced him). Dave made it clear to him that a high school degree would mean more to him than a GED ever would; that years from now folks would look at his job or college application and that being able to see that he had dropped out of high school. He came home from the Jackson (aka Misquito Reunion) and went to visit his high school counselor. It took time and persistance to make her believe that Josh was ready to come back to school and finish what he had started. And finish he did. He choose not to march at graduation - and as a result we didn't send out announcements, however he does have that precious diploma and the pride that goes along with it.
Joshua is waiting for his marching orders from the USMC where he will follow in his big brother's big footsteps. He expects to leave for bootcamp betwen the 25th of August and the 15th of September (the sooner the better in his mind; mom and papa Jon don't mind the delay!)
Josh hopes to earn his way into the Corps special forces and anticipates making a career in the Marine's that will eventually involve finishing his college degree and becoming an officer. Josh also hopes to get orders to Okie (The Rock) Japan where he will NOT follow his big brother's big footsteps, but rather leave the base and explore a world that has always intrigued him. He is reading about Japan - culture and language as well as the theories of marshal arts. He has also been in training this summer with a local marshal arts master.
Please join me in saying - CONGRATULATIONS to Joshie and THANK YOU for good aunties, uncles and grandparents who help us find our way along the road in life.
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6 comments:
Dear Josh, Congratulations on Graduation and the US Marines. I joined the navy 20 years ago. It was the best thing I ever did. My parents couldn't trust me with the car, but the military put me in charge of $150,000 dollar equipment. :) 'Sure proud of ya! Aunt Lana
Josh,
We are very prod of you getting your diploma. Like most things in life, parts of our lives that take a lot of work become the most precious to us. This is something that you will look back on many years to come. Last year was my 20th high school reunion, and I still have fond memories from that time in my life, and while I could not attend my reunion because of the family reunion last year, it was fun getting in touch with my class mates from then. You have a great future with the Marines, and they are lucky to have you.
Uncle Micheal
Way to go Josh! That is a big accomplishment that will help you in your life.
Way to go Josh! Basic training will be over before you know it. It sounds like you have a great plan. The military was a great help in getting my education I am sure they will be for you two. I have only spent a few weeks in Japan but I loved it, I hope you get sent there soon. In fact, I have enjoyed everywhere that the Air Force has sent me. I did not always enjoy every minute but I found the time to get out a meet the locals and see what there was to do. I even have some good memory from basic training even thought it is not meant to be fun. Keep us posted and we will try to keep in touch. We might even find a way to come see you in Japan.
Uncle David
Congratulations Josh. Keep us posted on when you leave for Basic. I have also loved asian culture for many years, especially some of the things taught by Buddhism and Taoism. It is a very peaceful, open way to live.
Josh,
Way to stick to your goals. I know this took longer than you had planned but you got it done and that's the most important thing. Grandma and I wish you the very best in the Marine Corps. When do you plan to leave? We'd like to see you before you depart ... any chance in that? We also want to bring you your grduation gift :-).
Grandpa
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