It was the summer of 1990, and I was in a field chopping cotton in Jones, La. I was a junior in high school and participated in every sport to stay away from the cotton fields. Three things I loved about sports were teamwork, trust, and fitness. I wanted that to continue after high school.

Although I had relatives in the Army and Navy, I wanted to be part of the best: “The Few, The Proud, The Marines.” My classmates said I was crazy and why not take the easy route such as the Army or Air Force, but I wanted a challenge. The Marine Corps provided that challenge, and I met and exceeded every challenge brought before me.

From graduation as boot camp honor man to retiring as a field grade officer, the Marine Corps has provided me with many challenges and many opportunities. I am proud to be a Marine and humbled to be alive to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the deadliest fighting force in the world. Semper Fidelis.

Retired Maj. Burrell Parmer, Fred Brock American Legion Post 828, San Antonio