Marlborough – Marine Corps Pfc. Seth W. Parker, son of Janie S. and Wayne C. Parker of Marlborough, recently completed 12 weeks of basic training at Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island, S.C., designed to challenge new Marine recruits both physically and mentally.
Parker and fellow recruits began their training at 5 a.m. by running three miles and performing calisthenics. In addition to the physical conditioning program, Parker 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. The recruits performed close order drill and operated as a small infantry unit during field training.
Parker and fellow recruits also received instruction on the Marine Corps’ core values of honor, courage and commitment, and what they mean in guiding personal and professional conduct.
The Marine Corps recruits ended the training phase with The Crucible, a 54-hour, team evolution culminating in an emotional ceremony in which recruits are presented the Marine Corps Emblem and addressed as “Marines” for the first time in their careers.
