Joel's Promotion

Renee and I were able to attend Wpns Battalion formation at Quantico on December 3rd and witness Joel getting promoted to Staff Sergeant! Joel and the two men on the left of him were promoted to that rank, and another 8 or so men to Sergeant. The Colonel (the battalion commander) who performed the promotions had nothing but GOOD things to say about Joel and the terrific job he does for the Marines! Great job and congratulations Joel! (And thank you for your service!)

(This first one is a video. Click on the arrow to watch it.)

Here are some other pictures from that morning. You can click on the photos to see them larger, then click the "back arrow" to return to this page.


Renee and Joel on the way to formation.

Marines begin gathering on the shooting range for formation.


The Colonel giving the men instructions.

Starting the ceremony.


Joel getting his new rank insignia pinned on.


The battalion congratulating the promotees.

Reveille

Here is an interesting article about the USMC enlisted rank and insignia:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/U.S._Marine_Corps_enlisted_rank_insignia

and another about how the Marine Corp awards promotions:
http://usmilitary.about.com/cs/marinepromotions/a/marineprom.htm

It's much more difficult to get promoted in the Marines than I ever imagined!