Military News (Oct. 24, 2012)

Local residents graduate from Marine Corps training

Area natives Pfc. Adam J. Crooks, 19, and Pfc. Taylor J. Waterworth, 18, earned the title of U.S. Marine upon graduating from Marine Corps recruit training in San Diego respectively on Sept. 14 and Sept. 21, 2012.

Crooks and Waterworth enter into a proud, lifelong brotherhood composed of the select few men and women who have earned their place in the Corps' ranks.

Putting their recruit honor, courage and commitment to the test, Crooks and Waterworth faced the physically and mentally rigorous challenges packed into the 13 weeks of Marine Corps boot camp. The training was designed to enhance raw talent and to create the morale and discipline required of all Marines.

During recruit training, Crooks and Waterworth joined others from across the country to undertake the quest to be among the world's military elite. They learned time-honored military customs and courtesies and mastered close-order drill. The demanding physical fitness regimen placed them in the best shape of their life. The training honed vital military skills such as marksmanship, first-aid, martial arts and leadership.

Following approximately 10 days of well-earned leave, they will attend school to learn their occupational specialty. Then they will report to their first duty station to gain further knowledge and experience serving with a Marine Corps unit.

Both Crooks and Waterworth are 2012 graduates of West Fargo High School. They were enlisted by Staff Sgt. Dale Servold from the Marine Corps recruiting office in Fargo.