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So my dearest Geramie Ervin, this leg of your military journey finally comes to an end after a lonnnnng 13 weeks with your graduation on Friday and your earning the title of becoming one of the few and the proud, a U.S. Marine!!! I have seen your transformation through your letters. When I saw the Platoon video released last week I was speechless. You look so mature and exactly like what you were working towards. You look like a lean, mean Marine!

I cannot imagine what you have endured, but I bet you cannot imagine what your brother, Jordan Ervin and I have endured with your absence! The FB group I found and joined has been a godsend, invaluable for me, since we were all experiencing our “boys” in Delta Company going through boot camp. The group has been a wonderful source of support. Speaking of support, the encouragement you gave your brother in letters was priceless and could have very possibly been the difference in him passing his EMT class, because he did like you and did “whatever it takes” as you told him to do.

Last week when you began the Crucible I could not go to sleep Tuesday morning until I was able to light the candle at 2 a.m., hang the flag, turn the porch light on, and pray for the success of all in Delta Company. It seemed an almost endless 54 hours, but in your words, you and your Delta Co. brothers “killed” the “Crucible and are now Marines, OOH RAH!!!!

I was overjoyed to see that Delta Co. was able to attend the Padres game yesterday and some of the moms in the FB group were able to attend and take pictures and videos. I was able to see you for the first time in uniform. It soothed my soul. I so loved how the scoreboard giving props to Delta Co. 1st Battalion Marines and Dts. When “God Bless America” was sung, so many fans looked toward tne new Marines, Delta Co., and were grateful for the path you chose in becoming a Marine. The looks on your faces was priceless during the song. You could see the pride during what seemed to be that “exhaling” moment when you all seemed to feel for the first time that 13 week struggle you just endured was over, your title earned. You were out in public in uniform for the first time as U.S. Marines.

Family Day on Thursday and graduation Friday cannot get here soon enough for me. I am packing tonight and preparing the house for your welcome back home. You set out a goal extremely difficult and very noble. You did not allow anything to stop you even when things were tough and broke you down. You NEVER gave up. As you stated in several of your letters, “I will persevere”, and indeed you did, my son. Our family and your friends are so proud of you, but none prouder than Jordan Ervin and I…We cannot wait to see you Thursday!!

I am finally a Marine Mom and so proud to be, but even more proud of YOU.

I love you Geramie…see you in 3 days!!!!

Mom — feeling excited