PARRIS ISLAND, S.C. — Marine Corps Pvt. Robert G. Bissonnette Jr., son of Lori J. and Robert G. Bissonnette of Harrison, and Marine Corps Pvt. Edward W. Quasnitschka, son of Linda S. and Gregory P. Grinnell of Bridgton, earned the title of United States Marine after graduating from recruit training at Marine Corps Recruit Depot.

For 13 weeks, Bissonnette and Quasnitschka stayed committed during some of the world’s most demanding entry-level military training in order to be transformed from civilian to Marine instilled with pride, discipline and the core values of honor, courage and commitment. Training subjects included close-order drill, marksmanship with an M-16A4 rifle, physical fitness, martial arts, swimming, military history, customs and courtesies.

One week prior to graduation, they endured The Crucible, a 54-hour final test of recruits’ minds and bodies. Upon completion, recruits are presented the Marine Corps emblem and called Marines for the first time.

Bissonnette is a 2012 graduate of Oxford Hills Comprehensive High School of South Paris.

SAN ANTONIO, Texas — Air Force Airman Destiny A. Thomson graduated from basic military training at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness and basic warfare principles and skills.

Airmen who complete basic training earn four credits toward an associate in applied science degree through the Community College of the Air Force.

Thomson is the daughter of Patricia Pittman of Park Street, West Paris. She is a 2012 graduate of Fryeburg Academy.

COLUMBIA, S.C. — Army Pvt. Nicholas B. Michaud has graduated from basic combat training at Fort Jackson.

During the nine weeks of training, the soldier studied the Army mission, history, tradition and core values, physical fitness, and received instruction and practice in basic combat skills, military weapons, chemical warfare and bayonet training, drill and ceremony, marching, rifle marksmanship, armed and unarmed combat, map reading, field tactics, military courtesy, military justice system, basic first aid, foot marches and field training exercises.

Michaud is the grandson of Robert Littlefield of South Paris. He is a 2012 graduate of Oxford Hills Comprehensive High School, South Paris.

Copy the Story Link