Molly Marine

Platoon 4023

Private First Class Dominique Sharp

 

          Molly the Marine is a motivated leader who is looked up to by her fellow peers. Motivating my peers is a natural instinct for me. Being selected to be Molly Marine is an amazing accomplishment. I was raised to keep God first, always tell the truth, lead the pack, and to stay humble. I lost both of my parents when I was an undergrad, and as the oldest, I was forced to step outside of my comfort zone. It allowed me to consider being accountable for others, such as my 11 year old brother. I learned how to push through emotional trials and not give up, because someone else was watching me. Being a role model for my baby brother is the motivation that drives me every day.

After I completed my undergrad degree, I became complacent due to working a 9 to 5 and taking care of my little brother and grandmother. I hated the feeling of being mediocre and not pushing myself to do more than just being a college grand. I wanted to further my education, but I had no self-motivation to do it. One day I decided that I wanted to be a part of something that was bigger than me, something that had a more meaningful title. Initially I went to a navy recruiter office, but didn’t care for the unprofessionalism. Next was the Marine Corps office. At first I was hesitant about walking through the door, but I read a sign that stated, “Most people aren’t brave enough to walk through this door.” Being a person who is always a seeker for a challenge, I walked through those doors and began the first day of the rest of my life. Joining the Marine Corps has changed my life completely it has taught me to be disciplined and how to be a leader, even when I want to blend in with the crowd. It has also taught me to be accountable for more than just myself. Three leadership principles that mean the most to me are know yourself and seek self-improvement, set the example, and know your marines and look out for their welfare. These are attributes that I’ve added to my character since being here at recruit training.

       Enthusiasm is to have a sincere interest and exuberance in the performance of your duties. Every day here at recruit training my drill instructors display this leadership trait. Drill Instructors Sgt Wedell and Sgt Carter motivate me to push myself beyond my mental limits. If I make it through recruit training and become a Marine, I give all the credit to God for blessing me with great drill instructors. When I want to give up, and see others about to give up, I turn and help them with the same enthusiasm I just received from my drill instructors. They are the main reason why I am so driven and why I drive my fellow. I whole heartedly hope that one day the entire platoon is a mirror image of great Marines such as our drill instructor team. I am humbled and excited to earn the title Molly Marine.