This will be the last letter I write to anyone while I am here. This Sunday we step for the Crucible. The first day is the "Confidence Chamber"-the gas chamber. Not excited.
I do have some news I am excited about! I received my orders. December 20, I stand detached from my current unit (my bootcamp platoon) and I am to report to MCT = Marine Combat Training at Camp Pendleton on Jan 14, 2014. On Dec 31, 2013 I will be doing recruiters assistance for two weeks after my leave. So you all get 20 days of me being HOME!
I am pretty stoked!
Also, my exact military occupation speciality is Aviation Ordnance, I didn't get Crash/Fire like I was hoping for however, as I understand it, I will be putting payloads onto aircraft, assembling them, bomb building, and/or maintaining the really big guns on a Thunderbird. So still a very awesome job!
After the next training MCT (Marine Combat Training) I will go directly to Pensacola Florida for my training/education. I am allowed to have phone calls at all the next few places and I hear that MOS training is a lot of fun.
If you are wondering what I need, I do not really need much.
Once you get here, there is shopping on base.
I want to share an experience I have had this week, as I have mentioned previously, I am the LDS Prayer Leader in my platoon for four recruits. One of which I helped baptized during our time here. The protestant prayer leader is one rack away from me and he and I are pretty good friends.
Throughout all of bootcamp he asked me about the "little rumors" surrounding mormons and I always answered to the best of my ability, but, always told him that I wasn't not the best source because I do not know everything. Well, through out this training He and I have jokingly had little sparring matches about our faiths. Now as a prayer leaders we get to meet once during the week to discuss ways to better help the platoon spiritually. This week, he came to our mormon prayer leader lesson. While Elder & Sister Jensen taught the lesson, I went to the back of the room and taught him some of the foundational truths of the gospel. After, Elder J and I gave him a healing blessing and he is coming to church with me again this Sunday.
I have had such an expotential spiritual growth here, I am feeling confident.
To finish this last letter, I want to share one final thing. Bangle challenged me to do this and I like the idea. In WWII an American Pilot was shot down and captured. His captures allowed him to write home only once and limited him to 25 words. So he had to think hard about exactly what to say because he thought it could be the last 25 words anyone would hear from him. While my situation is not the same, I am going to give you my 25 words.
My Family - There are many like you, but you are mine. The love we share has carried me up and made me whole. I Love You.
Love,
Tanner
Sunday, December 29, 2013
Sunday, December 1, 2013
A Baptism @ Basic - Nov 24
I have really exciting NEWS! I was going to wait to tell you, but can't wait anymore I want to tell you about it!
Two weeks ago, I was ordained to the Office of an Elder. I have already given a couple blessing and seen them manifest. It has been such an experience.
Now, today, I had the opportunity to baptize my good friend. His name is Holden Bangle, he is from Roy, Utah. He and I had the same recruiter and I had the opportunity to confirm him a member along with another recruit. I am getting my temple recommend before graduation. :) Seriously, I am really psyched to graduate and go to church with you all. I am looking forward to go to the Temple.
That first Monday night I get back, Bangle and several other from Utah in my company are going to go together to see the lights at Temple Square. It is going to be a lot of fun.
I want to visit all the family we can before Christmas. As for what I would like to do on and around graduation I am including a small ternary of what I would like.
Things will definitely be strange for you all seeing me again. Not sure how noticeable my changes will be.
I miss and love you all,
Love Tanner
Two weeks ago, I was ordained to the Office of an Elder. I have already given a couple blessing and seen them manifest. It has been such an experience.
Now, today, I had the opportunity to baptize my good friend. His name is Holden Bangle, he is from Roy, Utah. He and I had the same recruiter and I had the opportunity to confirm him a member along with another recruit. I am getting my temple recommend before graduation. :) Seriously, I am really psyched to graduate and go to church with you all. I am looking forward to go to the Temple.
That first Monday night I get back, Bangle and several other from Utah in my company are going to go together to see the lights at Temple Square. It is going to be a lot of fun.
I want to visit all the family we can before Christmas. As for what I would like to do on and around graduation I am including a small ternary of what I would like.
Things will definitely be strange for you all seeing me again. Not sure how noticeable my changes will be.
I miss and love you all,
Love Tanner
A Prayer Answered - Nov 19
Today, I had the Series Commander Inspection. Basically, we all stood in formation in our drill uniforms and a handful of recruits are inspected by random by the series commander--Capt Moore.
I have recently been praying for the Senior Drill Instructor and his subbordinates to notice me more (in a good way). Sure enough, Capt Moore's heels came together in from of me and as luck would have it my Senior Drill Instructor was right there watching. I executed a perfect inspection arms (look that up on YouTube) after which he took my weapon and checked it and my uniform.
Cleanest weapon in the platoon, perfect uniform, and I answered all his questions with a cool confidence. The expression on his face was a HUGE confidence builder but even more so when he turned to my Senior Drill Instructor and said "This guy know his stuff and his bearing is solid. It was a good day.
I am a Phase III Recruit now in the MCRD again. I have exactly 31 days from today until I get to see you all again. 3 more weeks of training and then the Crucible. I am so excited! The end of the training is in sight.
Mom/Dad as for all your questions: Yes, bring a small bag with my things. When you pick me up I will need room to pack my sea bag other gear bags (shouldn't be a problem with Black Betty) Other than that, pretty simple.
I love and miss you all,
Love
Tanner
I have recently been praying for the Senior Drill Instructor and his subbordinates to notice me more (in a good way). Sure enough, Capt Moore's heels came together in from of me and as luck would have it my Senior Drill Instructor was right there watching. I executed a perfect inspection arms (look that up on YouTube) after which he took my weapon and checked it and my uniform.
Cleanest weapon in the platoon, perfect uniform, and I answered all his questions with a cool confidence. The expression on his face was a HUGE confidence builder but even more so when he turned to my Senior Drill Instructor and said "This guy know his stuff and his bearing is solid. It was a good day.
I am a Phase III Recruit now in the MCRD again. I have exactly 31 days from today until I get to see you all again. 3 more weeks of training and then the Crucible. I am so excited! The end of the training is in sight.
Mom/Dad as for all your questions: Yes, bring a small bag with my things. When you pick me up I will need room to pack my sea bag other gear bags (shouldn't be a problem with Black Betty) Other than that, pretty simple.
I love and miss you all,
Love
Tanner
Fire Team Leader - Nov 17
Dear Family,
Thanks for keeping posted on how my things are at home. I am glad to know my bills are correct/in order. When you all get here there is a family day, and then graduation that Friday. As soon as I About Face and guys rush on that parade deck and find me! We can pack up and go. I am pretty sure that I am going to want to just go home quick.
I will spend one day relaxing with you in Cali, but I want to get to the Snow and have Christmas home in Utah.
Today, we go back to the MCRD-it's the first day of Phase 3. I qualified as an expert in the marksmanship, I scored a 320 our of 350 combined over both the know distance course and the combat course. It was a lot of fun but I am glad to be in the home stretch. I am so excited to see you all and for you to see me. I am not sure I "look" different but I feel a lot different. My self control and disciple are through the roof! I am under 180 now. We have completed all the hikes other than the final one up the reaper. I don't know if I told you? I am a fire team leader in my squad. The guide wants to make me a squad leader, he says I do more as a fireteam leader than most squad leaders. So that is exciting. Other than that, I don't really have much news.
I am really starting to miss you all really bad. I have one request, my first meal outside of here needs to be Chinese! So do some research in the area so we can go straight there after I graduate. Pack some of my clothes, my phone, some toe shoes.
I love you all!
Love, Tanner
Thanks for keeping posted on how my things are at home. I am glad to know my bills are correct/in order. When you all get here there is a family day, and then graduation that Friday. As soon as I About Face and guys rush on that parade deck and find me! We can pack up and go. I am pretty sure that I am going to want to just go home quick.
I will spend one day relaxing with you in Cali, but I want to get to the Snow and have Christmas home in Utah.
Today, we go back to the MCRD-it's the first day of Phase 3. I qualified as an expert in the marksmanship, I scored a 320 our of 350 combined over both the know distance course and the combat course. It was a lot of fun but I am glad to be in the home stretch. I am so excited to see you all and for you to see me. I am not sure I "look" different but I feel a lot different. My self control and disciple are through the roof! I am under 180 now. We have completed all the hikes other than the final one up the reaper. I don't know if I told you? I am a fire team leader in my squad. The guide wants to make me a squad leader, he says I do more as a fireteam leader than most squad leaders. So that is exciting. Other than that, I don't really have much news.
I am really starting to miss you all really bad. I have one request, my first meal outside of here needs to be Chinese! So do some research in the area so we can go straight there after I graduate. Pack some of my clothes, my phone, some toe shoes.
I love you all!
Love, Tanner
Scored An Expert - Nov 8
Dear Family,
Well I scored an expert this week for the rifle qualification. I did my best at the 500 yard line which is a really far distance to shoot a little bullet! I am pleased.
This weekend is the birthday of the Marine Corps, so most of the Drill Instructors are in Las Vegas for the ball. So today has been a relaxing day. All we have done is drilled, studied, and trained a little. I am up to 17 pull-ups, 167 crunches in 2 minutes, and 120 ammo can lifts in 2 minutes. I ran the last 3mile in 22:30. I am getting in really good shape here. Can't wait to show you all!
It is crazy to think I am already near the end and next week is the field week, we learn land navigation, sleep in sleeping bags, eat MRI's, Hygiene with baby wipes and then we shoot another rifle course with moving targets and such. That will be fun! After all that we go back to MCRD and have team week which is just us working together to accomplish simple tasks around the base.
Then PT week, then Finals Week, then the Crucible, then Marine Week. At the end of Marine week I get to see you all again! I know its still a month away, but the way it is broken down helps it move more quickly. I really look forward to that final day, driving home with you all.
I definitely want to just go home. So please do Disneyland and anything else you like beforehand. The sooner I can have a day to just relax and decompress the better. I miss family road trips too---
I love you all,
Love,
Tanner
Well I scored an expert this week for the rifle qualification. I did my best at the 500 yard line which is a really far distance to shoot a little bullet! I am pleased.
This weekend is the birthday of the Marine Corps, so most of the Drill Instructors are in Las Vegas for the ball. So today has been a relaxing day. All we have done is drilled, studied, and trained a little. I am up to 17 pull-ups, 167 crunches in 2 minutes, and 120 ammo can lifts in 2 minutes. I ran the last 3mile in 22:30. I am getting in really good shape here. Can't wait to show you all!
It is crazy to think I am already near the end and next week is the field week, we learn land navigation, sleep in sleeping bags, eat MRI's, Hygiene with baby wipes and then we shoot another rifle course with moving targets and such. That will be fun! After all that we go back to MCRD and have team week which is just us working together to accomplish simple tasks around the base.
Then PT week, then Finals Week, then the Crucible, then Marine Week. At the end of Marine week I get to see you all again! I know its still a month away, but the way it is broken down helps it move more quickly. I really look forward to that final day, driving home with you all.
I definitely want to just go home. So please do Disneyland and anything else you like beforehand. The sooner I can have a day to just relax and decompress the better. I miss family road trips too---
I love you all,
Love,
Tanner
Tough Day - Nov 2
Dear Family,
Today has been a really tough day. We had a 5 mile hike over really rough terrain in full combat gear. Cammies, boots, flak jackets, kevlar helmets, our M16's slung over and full packs on our backs. We have to stay in formation and shout off cadences. I am so beat. Then we drilled the rest of the day, prepping for the final drill next phase. Monday, we start shooting for the first time. We practice for 3 days and then have to qualify on the las day. I am going to go for my expert badge. I just want to get to the end of this training. I am tired all the time and I have not been comfortable since my last night at home with you all. Don't get me wrong, I am motivated and still going strong! Just missing home really bad today.
Anyways, how are things at home? How was Halloween? I spent my favorite holiday in a sitting position with my M16 digging into my shoulder for several hours. Our rifles are pretty cool :).
We have Alogs on them so that part is exciting.
I have learned how to fight iwth a bayonet on my rifle and how to fight with it in my hand. Hand to hand combat. I know some pretty cool take downs, chokes, and finishers. I feel like I am in a Mortal Kombat when we do combat training because they have us shout "kill" every time we execute a move.
As I move forward heres it really makes us move faster. Everything we have to do has to be loud, viscous, fast, and intense. Don't be surprised when I sit down for a meal together and I am finished before you even get started! Despite how tough it is, as I look back on all the challenges I feel like recruit training has not been all that difficult. I feel like anyone really could do it. NOT everyone should-but, could. But, maybe that is because I am feeling stronger mentally, physically, spiritually now. Perhaps that influences my opinion.
I really do miss you all. Make sure you are here early that morning of the 19th for family day! I want you all to see my run the moto-run and have that day on base with me. Then the 20th get a good parking spot so when I graduate we can HEAD OUT! I can't wait to get a good meal and with my family.
Love and miss you all!
Love,
Tanner
Today has been a really tough day. We had a 5 mile hike over really rough terrain in full combat gear. Cammies, boots, flak jackets, kevlar helmets, our M16's slung over and full packs on our backs. We have to stay in formation and shout off cadences. I am so beat. Then we drilled the rest of the day, prepping for the final drill next phase. Monday, we start shooting for the first time. We practice for 3 days and then have to qualify on the las day. I am going to go for my expert badge. I just want to get to the end of this training. I am tired all the time and I have not been comfortable since my last night at home with you all. Don't get me wrong, I am motivated and still going strong! Just missing home really bad today.
Anyways, how are things at home? How was Halloween? I spent my favorite holiday in a sitting position with my M16 digging into my shoulder for several hours. Our rifles are pretty cool :).
We have Alogs on them so that part is exciting.
I have learned how to fight iwth a bayonet on my rifle and how to fight with it in my hand. Hand to hand combat. I know some pretty cool take downs, chokes, and finishers. I feel like I am in a Mortal Kombat when we do combat training because they have us shout "kill" every time we execute a move.
As I move forward heres it really makes us move faster. Everything we have to do has to be loud, viscous, fast, and intense. Don't be surprised when I sit down for a meal together and I am finished before you even get started! Despite how tough it is, as I look back on all the challenges I feel like recruit training has not been all that difficult. I feel like anyone really could do it. NOT everyone should-but, could. But, maybe that is because I am feeling stronger mentally, physically, spiritually now. Perhaps that influences my opinion.
I really do miss you all. Make sure you are here early that morning of the 19th for family day! I want you all to see my run the moto-run and have that day on base with me. Then the 20th get a good parking spot so when I graduate we can HEAD OUT! I can't wait to get a good meal and with my family.
Love and miss you all!
Love,
Tanner
Sunday, November 3, 2013
From the Seventy
Dear Brother and Sister Eborn:
We recently learned that Tanner has joined the military and is attending basic training at the MCRD, CA. We are pleased to inform you that he has been attending Church services on base and are grateful for the spirit he brings to the meetings. President Tucker is the Church leader at the MCRD and will do all he can to help strengthen Tanner's faith and testimony. We appreciate your support and know you join with us in asking that the Lord will guide and protect him during this time of uncertainty and turmoil in the world.
In these troubled times, it is heartwarming to see your son courageously step forward to help preserve our freedoms and way of life. You can be proud of the part you played in molding Tanner's character. Courage and patriotism do not come automatically; they are planted in the hearts for the children by their parents. We express gratitude to you for your selfless service in his behalf.
We know that the Lord is mindful of Tanner and the challenges he will face as he valiantly serves in the military.
Sincerely,
Elder Bruce A Carlson
General, USAF (Retired)
We recently learned that Tanner has joined the military and is attending basic training at the MCRD, CA. We are pleased to inform you that he has been attending Church services on base and are grateful for the spirit he brings to the meetings. President Tucker is the Church leader at the MCRD and will do all he can to help strengthen Tanner's faith and testimony. We appreciate your support and know you join with us in asking that the Lord will guide and protect him during this time of uncertainty and turmoil in the world.
In these troubled times, it is heartwarming to see your son courageously step forward to help preserve our freedoms and way of life. You can be proud of the part you played in molding Tanner's character. Courage and patriotism do not come automatically; they are planted in the hearts for the children by their parents. We express gratitude to you for your selfless service in his behalf.
We know that the Lord is mindful of Tanner and the challenges he will face as he valiantly serves in the military.
Sincerely,
Elder Bruce A Carlson
General, USAF (Retired)
Letter to Mom | 15 Pounds Lighter
Mom,
I am really starting to miss home! When I graduate, I only want to stay one day in California. I really miss home and Utah. Today is Sunday, again, my only day to actually write you. Church was cut short but I did get to hear a talk from a converted Navy Seal. He lived in Layton, Utah for 3 Years. I guess Layton is where the Church Training Security Detail is for the Prophet and Quorum's body guards. Pretty Cool.
The days go by fast and the weeks are going faster! I have learned so much, so fast! I am always learning. I have lost 15 pounds and I am getting stronger despite how weak and tired I am. I would love to see how I could perform if I was fully rested and recuperated. I would be unstoppable!
These next four years are going to teach me so much. I plan on finishing my degree.
It's is kind of looking like I will be stationed here in California, however I will not know for sure until the end. I am just looking forward to the end of Basic. 54 more days! And life will get better, for now I have your pictures, my scriptures, and can read your letters (so please keep writing).
I love you mom.
Tanner
I am really starting to miss home! When I graduate, I only want to stay one day in California. I really miss home and Utah. Today is Sunday, again, my only day to actually write you. Church was cut short but I did get to hear a talk from a converted Navy Seal. He lived in Layton, Utah for 3 Years. I guess Layton is where the Church Training Security Detail is for the Prophet and Quorum's body guards. Pretty Cool.
The days go by fast and the weeks are going faster! I have learned so much, so fast! I am always learning. I have lost 15 pounds and I am getting stronger despite how weak and tired I am. I would love to see how I could perform if I was fully rested and recuperated. I would be unstoppable!
These next four years are going to teach me so much. I plan on finishing my degree.
It's is kind of looking like I will be stationed here in California, however I will not know for sure until the end. I am just looking forward to the end of Basic. 54 more days! And life will get better, for now I have your pictures, my scriptures, and can read your letters (so please keep writing).
I love you mom.
Tanner
Moon Dust | Phase II
Dear Family,
It has been over a month since I have left. I am at Camp Pendelton now in Phase II. This is where we start shooting and do lots of hiking. When you write me use the same address, they just forward it to me.
The bus ride here was nice, it was to good to see normal life through the bus windows, people walking around, running errands etc,. The bus driver had on the best radio station--playing Queen, VanHalen, Phil Collins and Peter Gabriel. All songs that made me homesick, when we got off the bus there was a giant platoon IT Session and it is all moon dust (no grass here) so we got caked in a thick coat of powder. The drill instructor's call it sugar cookie factory. I have need to request a favor, I need you to pray for my health this phase. My body, specifically my left knee---I hurt it the other day pretty bad and have been struggling with it. I did get a blessing today at church for it though and it is already starting to feel better. It is amazing (crazy) how powerful my faith is here, and how powerful the Priesthood is here also. I was interviewed last week and found worthy to be ordained an Elder.
I have mixed feelings, I want to wait until Family Day to be ordained, so dad and JT can do it but, I also feel the prompting that to do it now so I have that capacity while I am here. I am not sure, so let me know your opinion?
Time is really going fast here. I still feel like I only just left home. If you can guys can---mom or dad please write ASAP and let me know the details you have planned on travel here in December. Also, let me know on my finances.
I love you all,
Tanner
It has been over a month since I have left. I am at Camp Pendelton now in Phase II. This is where we start shooting and do lots of hiking. When you write me use the same address, they just forward it to me.
The bus ride here was nice, it was to good to see normal life through the bus windows, people walking around, running errands etc,. The bus driver had on the best radio station--playing Queen, VanHalen, Phil Collins and Peter Gabriel. All songs that made me homesick, when we got off the bus there was a giant platoon IT Session and it is all moon dust (no grass here) so we got caked in a thick coat of powder. The drill instructor's call it sugar cookie factory. I have need to request a favor, I need you to pray for my health this phase. My body, specifically my left knee---I hurt it the other day pretty bad and have been struggling with it. I did get a blessing today at church for it though and it is already starting to feel better. It is amazing (crazy) how powerful my faith is here, and how powerful the Priesthood is here also. I was interviewed last week and found worthy to be ordained an Elder.
I have mixed feelings, I want to wait until Family Day to be ordained, so dad and JT can do it but, I also feel the prompting that to do it now so I have that capacity while I am here. I am not sure, so let me know your opinion?
Time is really going fast here. I still feel like I only just left home. If you can guys can---mom or dad please write ASAP and let me know the details you have planned on travel here in December. Also, let me know on my finances.
I love you all,
Tanner
Thursday, October 17, 2013
My Testimony
Dear Family,
I am glad to hear you all had a good time at in St. George. I wish I could have been there.
Training here is getting intense, but somehow a little easier. Next Saturday, is our initial drill which we are graded on. I have the rifle movements down however, no one can touch our platoons marching. So I have a good feeling about it.
Small world, I just met a missionary here at the MCRD who was one of Grandpa Eborn's history students!
The spirit here is surprisingly very strong. I want you to know how big of an idiot that I have been the past few years. I understand now why it I felt like joining the military and come here. Yes, being a marine is something to be proud of. The military discipline and strength is awesome however, all this has been secondary, I know the reason I was guided here was to learn to be humble and rediscover my testimony of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Family, I want to thank you for putting up with my brash and immature behavior the past few years. With all this going on with me, my heart sinks when I think of all of you. This past week hasn't been as difficult, although the training is intense. We did pugel sticks and bayonet training, which was exhausting but kind of fun. We did an obstacle course and climbed a really long rope!
In two more weeks we go to Camp Pendelton for Phase II. Keep the letters coming - and feel free to share my address to whoever would like to write. Letters are gold here.
Siblings - good luck in school
Mom & Dad - your seriously the best.
I love you all,
Love,
Tanner
I am glad to hear you all had a good time at in St. George. I wish I could have been there.
Training here is getting intense, but somehow a little easier. Next Saturday, is our initial drill which we are graded on. I have the rifle movements down however, no one can touch our platoons marching. So I have a good feeling about it.
Small world, I just met a missionary here at the MCRD who was one of Grandpa Eborn's history students!
The spirit here is surprisingly very strong. I want you to know how big of an idiot that I have been the past few years. I understand now why it I felt like joining the military and come here. Yes, being a marine is something to be proud of. The military discipline and strength is awesome however, all this has been secondary, I know the reason I was guided here was to learn to be humble and rediscover my testimony of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Family, I want to thank you for putting up with my brash and immature behavior the past few years. With all this going on with me, my heart sinks when I think of all of you. This past week hasn't been as difficult, although the training is intense. We did pugel sticks and bayonet training, which was exhausting but kind of fun. We did an obstacle course and climbed a really long rope!
In two more weeks we go to Camp Pendelton for Phase II. Keep the letters coming - and feel free to share my address to whoever would like to write. Letters are gold here.
Siblings - good luck in school
Mom & Dad - your seriously the best.
I love you all,
Love,
Tanner
Wednesday, October 16, 2013
Making You Proud
Dear Dad,
Everything I do here I am doing to make you and mom proud. Because I know there is only way to finish this race, by crossing onto that parade deck and greeting you with a great big hug. I have never done anything this difficult in my entire life, but honestly, it is not as bad as I expected. I am getting the hang of these things and it gets easier with each day. As of today, only 11 week left. My body is getting tighter and leaner. I eat 3 meals a day and keep my diet very primal. I get a haircut each week and my schedule is I go to class to PT to PT to class and before I know it, it is time to hit the rack. Most nights I get one hour of fire watch which isn't too bad---it gives me time to think and memorize things I need to.
I have worn the same pair of desert cammie's trousers/shirt since I got here (it is starting to gross me out) but, it is all bearable... I am doing well.
I hope you know I love you dad, you are what I look to when I try to be a man. You inspire me to try new things, and push me to face my fears. I love and appreciate you.
Love,
Tanner
Everything I do here I am doing to make you and mom proud. Because I know there is only way to finish this race, by crossing onto that parade deck and greeting you with a great big hug. I have never done anything this difficult in my entire life, but honestly, it is not as bad as I expected. I am getting the hang of these things and it gets easier with each day. As of today, only 11 week left. My body is getting tighter and leaner. I eat 3 meals a day and keep my diet very primal. I get a haircut each week and my schedule is I go to class to PT to PT to class and before I know it, it is time to hit the rack. Most nights I get one hour of fire watch which isn't too bad---it gives me time to think and memorize things I need to.
I have worn the same pair of desert cammie's trousers/shirt since I got here (it is starting to gross me out) but, it is all bearable... I am doing well.
I hope you know I love you dad, you are what I look to when I try to be a man. You inspire me to try new things, and push me to face my fears. I love and appreciate you.
Love,
Tanner
Tanner's Testimony
Dear Mom,
I know you are probably missing me a lot but, just remember that there is light at the end of this tunnel. As of today, I have exactly 11 weeks until graduation. Everyday gets a little easier and the DI's yell a little less. This will be over before you know it and you will be able to hug your baby boy again! I hope you know I love you so very much, it is because of you that I went to church here.
When I first saw the Brother and Sister missionaries called to serve here, my stomach turned and I started cry. At the service they talked about how this place is a humbling experience and that only the meek and humble and righteous can feel the spirit. That is the truest thing I have ever heard. I have never felt the spirit so powerfully before it rocked me to my foundation. I knew immediately what a fool I have been the past few years.
I volunteered to be the prayer leader within my platoon and have been praying for a group of five of us. Two individuals are not members and I reach out to more and more recruits everyday. It is incredible to see how openly all these men accept the gospel that I have fought for the last few years. It is because we are all becoming humble here. They shave our heads, make us refer to ourselves as recruits, they make us speak a certain way, and take away our individual identities. It is the most humbling experience I have ever had, and it because of this it has softened my heart and opened my soul.
Thank you mom, for never giving up on me.....I will make it up to you. I love you.
Love,
Tanner
I know you are probably missing me a lot but, just remember that there is light at the end of this tunnel. As of today, I have exactly 11 weeks until graduation. Everyday gets a little easier and the DI's yell a little less. This will be over before you know it and you will be able to hug your baby boy again! I hope you know I love you so very much, it is because of you that I went to church here.
When I first saw the Brother and Sister missionaries called to serve here, my stomach turned and I started cry. At the service they talked about how this place is a humbling experience and that only the meek and humble and righteous can feel the spirit. That is the truest thing I have ever heard. I have never felt the spirit so powerfully before it rocked me to my foundation. I knew immediately what a fool I have been the past few years.
I volunteered to be the prayer leader within my platoon and have been praying for a group of five of us. Two individuals are not members and I reach out to more and more recruits everyday. It is incredible to see how openly all these men accept the gospel that I have fought for the last few years. It is because we are all becoming humble here. They shave our heads, make us refer to ourselves as recruits, they make us speak a certain way, and take away our individual identities. It is the most humbling experience I have ever had, and it because of this it has softened my heart and opened my soul.
Thank you mom, for never giving up on me.....I will make it up to you. I love you.
Love,
Tanner
Lights to Lights
Dear Family,
I've finally reached a point in my training where things are starting to feel (sort of) routine. We have not been permitted time to really sit down and write, but when I can, I jot a few lines on this page.
Recruit processing was a blur of stress, fear, and confusion. The seasoned recruits have mostly been encouraging, informing us that it gets better after the first phase. I hope they are right. My body aches and I have not even been here two weeks in. I will get through this - quitting is not an option.
I do miss you all very much. When you dropped me off, watching you drive away was very hard for me. Believe it or not, my favorite part of all this has been the Church Services. It was there where I first heard the MCRD compared to the Garden of Eden. I was confused at first, because this feels like hell. But, I do understand. In this place, MCRD, you cannot sin. Everything we do is to strengthen our mind and body. There are no vices, no guilty pleasures, no semblance of anything sinful. Honestly, right now there also very little to be joyful about. I live each day chow to chow, lights to lights, and if I just keep focusing on my goal it goes faster.
I love you all very much, please keep me in your thoughts and prayers.
Love,
Tanner
I've finally reached a point in my training where things are starting to feel (sort of) routine. We have not been permitted time to really sit down and write, but when I can, I jot a few lines on this page.
Recruit processing was a blur of stress, fear, and confusion. The seasoned recruits have mostly been encouraging, informing us that it gets better after the first phase. I hope they are right. My body aches and I have not even been here two weeks in. I will get through this - quitting is not an option.
I do miss you all very much. When you dropped me off, watching you drive away was very hard for me. Believe it or not, my favorite part of all this has been the Church Services. It was there where I first heard the MCRD compared to the Garden of Eden. I was confused at first, because this feels like hell. But, I do understand. In this place, MCRD, you cannot sin. Everything we do is to strengthen our mind and body. There are no vices, no guilty pleasures, no semblance of anything sinful. Honestly, right now there also very little to be joyful about. I live each day chow to chow, lights to lights, and if I just keep focusing on my goal it goes faster.
I love you all very much, please keep me in your thoughts and prayers.
Love,
Tanner
Witchdoctor
Dear Family,
I am still alive and kicking. My voice is completely gone, but that just means that I am loud enough to not get too much flak from the Drill Instructors (DI's). They have what they call "IT" which is incentive training to correct "minor deficiencies" - basically if you mess up get what recruits call quarterdeck. You go and do push-ups, crunches, mountain climbers and other tough exercises in full gear. I have personally been quarter decked six times, which is better than most.
My platoon is getting pretty good at drill, which our senior DI is very excited about.
I have been assigned as our platoon's witchdoctor because of my EMT experience as well as the LDS Prayer Leader. There our four members (including me) and the branch here is really awesome.
I miss you all very much! I miss my sisters, my mom, my dad, my awesome big brother. I miss showers that are longer than 60 seconds and be able to change my clothes everyday :) I miss enjoying my meals instead of devouring them in less than 5 minutes. Basically, I just miss home and can't really wait to hear from all you.
Please write.
Love,
Tanner
I am still alive and kicking. My voice is completely gone, but that just means that I am loud enough to not get too much flak from the Drill Instructors (DI's). They have what they call "IT" which is incentive training to correct "minor deficiencies" - basically if you mess up get what recruits call quarterdeck. You go and do push-ups, crunches, mountain climbers and other tough exercises in full gear. I have personally been quarter decked six times, which is better than most.
My platoon is getting pretty good at drill, which our senior DI is very excited about.
I have been assigned as our platoon's witchdoctor because of my EMT experience as well as the LDS Prayer Leader. There our four members (including me) and the branch here is really awesome.
I miss you all very much! I miss my sisters, my mom, my dad, my awesome big brother. I miss showers that are longer than 60 seconds and be able to change my clothes everyday :) I miss enjoying my meals instead of devouring them in less than 5 minutes. Basically, I just miss home and can't really wait to hear from all you.
Please write.
Love,
Tanner
Thursday, October 3, 2013
First Letter
Dear Mom & Dad,
I have been at the MCRD for over a week now. It is hard and intense but I am surviving. This will be a short letter, as most if my letters will be.
Write as often as you would like and share with those who will want to write.
One more thing, send us some powerbars please. Orders from our Senior DI-boxes of them.
I look forward to seeing you and hearing from all of you.
Please send small pictures too.
Love,
Tanner
Sunday, September 22, 2013
Getting Started
Today, Tanner reported for Duty and is on his way to Basic Training in San Diego, CA. Tanner will be at training for the next three months. Today, was hard day for us---to say goodbye however, we are excited to watch his adventures and see him in December.
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