A Big Day to Remember

     There are many days throughout my life that are very important to me but the day I will be talking about is August 4, 2023. After spending eight weeks in Training Center Cape May, New Jersey. I graduated United States Coast Guard bootcamp. 

Me in basic training with 
my company

Click here to hear more about my big day to remember!

Preparing for USCG bootcamp was challenging itself. I had to physically get myself in shape and memorize my required knowledge, so I would be prepared. Getting to basic training was definitely shocking and I wasn't sure what to expect for the next eight weeks. Throughout those eight weeks I learned what it truly meant to be a part of the United States Coast Guard. I realized why moving with a since of urgency is so important and how to work as a team. I was challenged mentally and physically every day to see if I truly had what it took to be a Coast guardsman. 

(Left) a friend from my company, (middle) Captain Howell
an alumni of SC State

The morning of my graduation day we woke up at 5:30 as usual for our it session. I never once thought I would be excited to be told to do push-ups and sit ups but with my company for the last time, I couldn't help but smile. So many emotions went throughout my head, fear, excitement, anxiety, and sadness. I couldn't believe the moment I worked so hard for was finally here.

Me waiting in the hallway
to walk out

Waiting in the hallway waiting to walk out into the gym was the most nerve wrecking. I knew my family was out there and I just couldn't wait to see them. As my graduation came to an end and my company sounded off for the last time together, I was overrun with emotions. I was sad because I knew a lot of my shipmates I wouldn't see again; I was excited because I couldn't wait to hug my family and start my journey. Seeing their faces and hearing how proud of me they were, was everything to me. I am the first in my family to join The United States Coast Guard, it is an accomplishment I can never forget. The hard work, sweat, and tears was worth it in the end.

My family at my graduation