Marine Corps await their new recruitment with flyers and a chance to show some strength. Photo by Jake Winkle (’17)by Tejas Chadha, Staff Writer
Students of Fountain Valley High School and brothers Kevin Lai (’17) and Calvin Lai (’17) are currently in a program that is training them for a career in the Marines. The program, Delayed Entry Program (DEP), trains students through different physical activities and boot camps similar to what they would experience in a Marine Boot Camp.
“This recruiter named Gysgt Alejandro Diaz came, and we talked a little bit, and that same day I went to his office to talk to him more and he asked me to come on a run with them and from then on I was hooked,” said Kevin.
For Kevin, an interest in military work always fascinated him, and when the opportunity came to try his hand at it, he instantly connected with what the Marines had to offer. Calvin, on the other hand, was interested in the cycling team the program offered. Given that Calvin is an avid cycler, he joined for that reason but ended up enjoying the program as a whole.
The program allows them to train with Marines twice a week and spend time with people in active duty or who previously served to learn more about different military services once a month.
The brothers hope to take this program through to the actual Marines and take advantage of some of the college benefits and career options this program will offer.
“For me, it’s a foot in the police force because after I serve in the military I’m hoping to join the SWAT once I’m done,” said Kevin.
“For me it’s getting my schooling done while being able to serve in the military,” Calvin said.
The more immediate timeline for the two could have them as active service men for about three months after high school is over.
“We go to three month boot camp in San Diego to get the military knowledge, and after that we have 10 day leave, and once that ends we get stationed wherever they decide.” said Kevin.
