Today this recruit was part of a group that was chosen to take a tour of the base. The drill instructors told us it was called the RAMP program. I am not sure what it stands for but it was explained that it was for recruits who are highly motivated, not so motivated and those who are borderline either way. The goal is to show us that there is life after boot camp and that we can survive it. Personally, aside from the sand fleas this recruit is having a great time.
We went to see the gas chamber, rifle range, confidence course, where the Crucible begins and a variety of other places. They even took us to see one of the fleet Marine's quarters to show us what it would look like living in the barracks. The barracks aren't very big at all. Each room holds up to four people, not a lot of space. Each Marine has their own closet area and shares a bunk bed. Only the very basics can fit in one of these rooms. All I can think about is where am I going to put all my furniture? I wonder if I will be able to qualify to live out in town housing when I get to the fleet.
As for the gas chamber, it looks intimidating. Just a small building with four concrete walls and windows. I am still trying to figure out how I will perform when the time comes. You can hear a lot of horror stories from others, mostly told to build the hype. All I have to do is keep my eyes straight ahead and do what I am told. At least that's what I'm banking on.
Anyway, it felt motivating to know that they had chosen me as one of the recruits to go along. Each day feels more and more exciting than the one before it.
Day two of the RAMP program and this time we were taken to a graduation that was happening on the parade deck. It gave me chills. The graduating class was dressed in their Service Alphas marching in sync. So much discipline in each of them. It was difficult to imagine that my platoon would be marching along that same parade deck several weeks from now. We can barely all walk in the same direction at the same time much less look like these new Marines.
I keep visualizing that day for myself with my friends and family all watching. There is little opportunity to do much of anything on your own while here but I have managed to write down a list of friends and family I want to invite to my graduation party when I get home. Along with that list is a longer, more detailed list of food that I want to have at that party. Now that's what's really important! They all somehow start with chocolate.
We were allowed to stand on the edge of the parade deck and watch the ceremony. Threatened of course with our lives if we so much as made a sound, but still able to watch. It made me excited for the future. Of course for graduation but the future of my career in general. Where would I end up? What will I be doing?
This was the last day for the RAMP program. I was glad to be a part of it. Looking forward to what tomorrow has in store for us.
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