Jurassic War

Mary,

I was happy to get your recent letter and appreciate your support for my decision to change over to infantry. Things have gone quite well here. It started out so tough that I wondered if I had the mettle to get through it. Most of the guys were tough. Very tough. But the Marines aren’t just tough physically. There is a mental fortitude they possess. Perseverance is a key trait. You must have the ability to live in discomfort, to live with pain, and withstand strenuous and harsh physical conditions for a protracted period of time. Somehow, I adapted and rose to the challenge. I’ve excelled here and have been forged into a man.

My request for infantry was approved. But there’s more. The company commander called me into his office and told me that they were forming a new outfit. Commandos would be trained from the finest Marines in the fleet and the top recruits in boot camp to engage in special operations in the Pacific theater. One or two battalions will be formed and specially trained beyond the elite training Marines already receive. They will likely be the first to engage the Japanese. I’ve been asked to join.

They demanded immediate responses. An invitation to join is seen as the highest privilege. Anyone who doesn’t jump at the opportunity is not worthy of the position. One must be fully committed to become a commando. You are always in my heart and I wish that I could have run this by you first. But I already gave them my answer. I’m going to be a Marine Raider.

Love,

Randall

Randall,

I got your letter today and had to write back right away. The news came as a surprise. I’m both shocked (frightened) and proud. We all knew that you could make it through Marine Corps boot camp, even when you doubted yourself. Your progress and outstanding contributions were not unexpected. The drill instructor’s suggestion of your changing over to infantry was a surprise, but only because I did not know they made those sorts of changes.

This recent change is totally amazing. We have read about the new Raider units in the paper. I can’t believe that you were selected out of all the possible candidates! It is quite an accomplishment. My only concern is whether it is too dangerous. Raiders are expected to make advance landings. Won’t they be vulnerable if cut off from the allied forces?

You have all my love and support.

Love always,

Mary

PS: I’ll see you in a couple of weeks. Looking forward to coming down for your graduation. It is very nice of your parents to pay for the trip.