Durham, N.C., native training at Parris Island to become U.S. Marine

Rct. Valencia L. Bracey, an 18-year-old native of Durham, N.C., is currently training at Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, S.C., in hopes of earning the title United States Marine. Bracey is training with Platoon 4034, Oscar Company, 4th Recruit Training Battalion, and is scheduled to graduate Oct. 16, 2015. “I joined to be the best and to fight for a country that gives us more than any other country gives its citizens.” Bracey graduated from Southern Durham High School in 2015. Approximately 20,000 recruits come to Parris Island annually for the chance to become United States Marines by enduring 13 weeks of rigorous, transformative training. Parris Island is home to entry-level enlisted training for approximately 50 percent of males and 100 percent of females in the Marine Corps. (Photo by Lance Cpl. Aaron Bolser)