Dinner Held for Marine Recruits in Waterford

WATERFORD, Mich. - Members of the U.S. Armed Forces consider themselves part of a big family. Friday night, some brand new Marine recruits and their loved ones were welcomed to the fold with open arms.

Several young men have decided to set their fears aside to fight for our freedom. They will soon become United States Marines.

Friday's Marine Family Night at Elks Lodge 810 in Waterford turned into a mini boot camp for the baby faced recruits. The recruits also gathered with family and close friends, those who most admire their courage and commitment to keep this nation safe.

"I believe that I was actually placed on this world to make a difference. So, I believe (do) whatever it takes just to get the job done," said Marine recruit Aaron Jackowski.

"Not too many people in the United States swear an oath to something higher than themselves," said U.S. Marine Recruiter Major Tom Cleaver. "These young men and women that are here today have done that already, and they'll do it again when they ship off to boot camp."

"I want to repay to this country for what it's given me," Jackowski said.

For many moms and dads, the fear and reality that their sons and daughters could be sacrificing their lives is weighing heavy on their hearts. However, it is crystal clear that these young men and women will be prepared for whatever happens next.

"Wherever the Marines take him, we know that he will go far. He will take the ball and he will run with it, and he will make a very, very big difference in this world," said Jeff Jackowski, Aaron's father.

"Whatever is meant to be is going to happen," said Mary Jackowski, Aaron's mother. "Whatever lies in front of him, I think that he can handle it and so will we. It will make us all stronger."

"You're now a mother, a father, a brother, a sister of a large organization, and that lasts for your entire life," said former Waterford Police Chief and Marine John Dean.

Very soon, these young people will say good-bye to their loved ones as they embark on a new journey and their new life.

"Deploying overseas and leaving your family is one of the hardest things you have to do as a Marine. However, it's also one of the most rewarding things you get to do as a person. You come back better," Cleaver said.

Support and prayers from family, friends and even strangers will help see them through every day, and that's something metro Detroiters do best.