I just noticed today was June 6th - wow. I had just graduated from high school and caught a bus downtown to enlist in the Marine Corps. Little did I know exactly what I'd be putting myself through in boot camp - yipes! I was on a 120 day delay program, so I didn't actually leave for boot camp until October 9th - not a bad time of the year to do boot in San Diego (weather-wise). I weighed 145 when I joined and 180 when I came home on Christmas leave (and trust me, it wasn't fat). I never climbed so many ropes or did so many squat thrusts in my life, and I thought I was in shape. LOL.

Isn't it amazing how a strict training regiment can pack on those pounds while only getting your two meals a day, and RUSHED meals at that!

Sometimes wish I could take a few weeks off and go through camp now so I can get back in top physical shape, but I'm no longer 18 and influenced/motivated through the methods used.

Well, muscle weighs more than fat so I'm not suprised you gained weight in boot camp.

I've never joined the military, but I would fight for my country any day, and I have alot of respect for our service men/women. That includes you too, Steve!

Thanks Juan

Actually, we had three meals a day, and yes, they were rushed. I do remember we all had to take a triple helping of cottage cheese with every meal - not my favorite food.