In 2024, our CIRCLE Academy Vermilion’s (CAV) Vocational program hosted armed forces recruiters, inspiring Alan, a junior, to pursue enlistment after graduation.
Captivated by the opportunity to serve, Alan stayed in touch with a recruiter, participating in physical training sessions to prepare for enlistment. His dedication was evident in his academic success and eagerness to join the Marines after he graduates in May! But Alan’s passion goes beyond preparation—it showed up at the top of his Christmas wish list this year – a Marine Corps flag.
This specific and heartfelt wish traveled all the way to the Angel Tree at Pekin First United Methodist Church. In a twist that seems like it was God’s plan, Alan’s wish was selected by a former Marine. When this veteran saw the request, he was moved by Alan’s dream and decided to fulfill it in the most personal way. Instead of purchasing a flag, he wrote a note to Alan and gave his own Semper Fi Marine Corps flag that had flown during his own deployments in Afghanistan and Iraq, a symbol of his pride, honor and years of service.
The note read:
Dear Future Marine,
I wanted you to have this flag for Christmas. It is not new but it is special to me, and now I pass it on to you, to carry on the tradition. I was in the Marine Corps for 10 years, and this flag was flown in Afghanistan in 2001, and also flown in Iraq, in 2003. It has seen many countries around the world, and now with you. I hope it can see many more! Best of luck in the future, and in boot camp. You will do amazing young man!
Merry Christmas and Semper Fi!!
-An Old Marine
Alan’s story is a powerful reminder of the impact of community and connection. One young man’s dream touched the heart of a Marine, bridging generations of service and showing the true spirit of giving at Christmas. Alan was surprised but stoic when he received his incredible gift. Just before the start of the new year, Alan’s teacher sent me a note that Alan was hoping could be delivered to the “Old Marine.”
Alan wrote, “Dear Sir, I want to thank you for this gift as it is one of the best ones I’ve ever received. My family has a long history of serving in the military and ever since I was young, I’ve wanted to do the same. I sincerely hope to serve my country and the Marine Corps well, just as you have. I want to again thank you for this gift as I am truly thankful for your trust in me and I will not let you or the Marine Corps down sir.”
We are so grateful to the “Old Marine,” and for the many individuals, families and organizations that helped to make the Christmas season amazing and special for youth, like Alan.