Today he left...

...for Marine boot camp and will be there for the next 12 weeks. He had a long day before finally boarding the bus.

They put the Poolees (name they are given till they get to boot camp when they are then called Recruits) up in a local hotel and then get them up early to have one last medical check. They then are taken to the MEPS. (Military Enlisting Process Station) LOTs more paper work had to be done because the computers went down that morning. So instead of getting to leave at 10am they had to hurry up and wait.
                                   Exciting to see him sworn in! 

 Then he got to eat lunch and his youngest brother and I were able to visit with him the whole time. Scott was able to get there after work an hour before he left and was able to visit with him, too. 
We got a quick photo in the swearing in room...thanks to youngest for taking this photo!

 
He was soooo ready to go and had heard a rumor that they were considering keeping them another night. Thankfully, the paperwork was complete and they were ready to go. They gave them a briefing and had them walk out of the room and to the bus.
The whole room clapped and cheered as they walked to the bus. I was able to run up and give on last hug before he boarded the bus.

  Joel, we love you and will be praying for you! See you February 12th for graduation!