Concerning Corporal's Course

Well,
I must admit that this past few days weeks, months, and year has been flying by! It has certainly not been the easiest year for me in many ways, but never the less, I'm still breathing (somehow).
I meant to give my remarks on Corporal's Course back in July some time ago, but I've had so many other things going on of late, that only now have I been able to get to it! Bear with me as some of this account may be a bit scatter-brained.
My AT (Annual Training) began somewhere about the middle of July, not long after my trip to Vegas. I must say that I was a bit frustrated as I packed and planned for the nearly two week period of training. There were various articles of clothing, etc that was on the list, that I was rather certain would not be necessary to bring (we would not need to use them - more of a personal preference, but still required). Despite this, I was a little anxious as well, as I knew that it was going to be a rough couple of weeks!
I did not know how right I was until I arrived; but, it started to sink in. For one thing, even though I knew I would upfront be paying for two weeks of housing, I found out only a few days prior to AT that I would be paying for housing off base! So rather than the mere $11 per night on base I would be paying about $60! So, I was not very happy with that!
And then, as we (my roommate and I) started to settle into our new surroundings, we soon learned that the much desired FREE chow hall food we had hoped for, we would have to spend more time eating elsewhere due to the long hours spent each day (aprox 12+) .
An average day started out at around 0500 with a quick shower (for me) and then off to PT (which was often longer than most sessions as it was more concerned with mission accomplishment, than time spent accomplishing the mission!) Then, we had time to take a quick shower, change over and head into the classroom for several hours of lectures over highly interesting information in a temperature most comfortable to us all (usually the kind that would put one to sleep regardless of a lecture, which often sped up this process).
We also, had a time of practical application in areas such as drill (marching Marines in formation, learning the drill movements, etc) and later sword manual (learning the sword movements in formal formations).
This was our regular routine for most of the time there. And then the day before graduation after we had completed our final written and practical application exams, we had a final phase of training: the Battle Course (aprox 24hrs). This Course consisted of urban warfare (dealing with clearing housing in fire teams), land navigation, squad and fire team movements. Although, this was a long day, it was likely the most fun as we were able to put all of the skills we had learned over the past two weeks to use in this final phase of training!
Following this, after a brief couple (aprox 3hrs or less) hours of sleep, it was time to change into our Charlies (Tan short sleeve blouse with green trousers) for our graduation ceremony. And that, was pretty much the end, aside from a few final loose ends to tie up!
All in all, though it was a tiring time, it was a good time, and I'm thankful for the training that I gained in the course, and I can honestly say that I am a better Corporal and NCO because of it and I feel more confident as a leader of Marines!

Semper Fidelis,

CPL Joshua Lee Foist

The Vegas Adventure

And so, as I hear the soft sound of jazz in the background of my Dallas apartment, lost in the melodies of Miles Davis, I am moved to remember the memories of Vegas, those many miles from here and but a few moments past.
Time moves quickly without one wanting it too. Too often I forget what has just past only a moment before, but to be sure I still will recall the time not so long ago when a few of we foistian clan were together.
For the week of Independence, twas a day to look fourward too. I left on a Tuesday flight and found my way to Vegas before it was night. The city was quite a sight with all its decor to be sure. The weather was not quite to my liking, too hot and too dry - it was the type of day one could easily pass by outside, and rather roam around at home.
Much of our time was spent there too, in the house where most of the family resided.
On the day of Independence we made our way to the house of some friends of the bride and groom, they were kind enough to offer room for the guests that had gathered for this fond affair. It was a day not to be forgotten, and although the air was rotten the occasion was most splendid. There was catering, and waitering, wine and cake for all at stake. It was a pleasant break from the busy life so far away.
The night too was young and would remain so until at least one or two, or perhaps even later. After the main event, we all moved on to a piano bar for a second celebration accompanied by musical recreation. The place was not bad, the company we had was quite relaxed as we enjoyed the entertainment of a popular piano pare, whose playing was most rare, that it made outsiders stare.
Once the music had past, we saw our last of that place and promptly moved on to a cocktail adventure before progressing to the dancers club, which gave a certain kind of rub. And once this rhythm was numb, we settled for a final bite before calling it a night.
There where other events of notable worth later on in the week. One of which would be a shame to forget, if I could remember the whole dam adventure. In short, we drove out to see old Hoover's ruins, those notable ones which hold back the river. We learned much of its history and saw deep inside its misery. Twas a fine business to be seen, and some of us were quite keen to know all of its fortunes, while others cared more to picture it through motion and sound.
And, as before stated there were other times spent, but for the sake of my consent I will leave them at that for I should think there will often be times to come on which I can "chew the fat" and tell you all about "that."

Keeping a little rhyme from time to time,

Audaciouslee

Police Concert in Dallas (The Recap)

Wow, it's hard to believe it's taken me this time to update this blog! The last few months have been rather busy for me! Look for future updates on more recent events in the coming weeks!

Well, on June 26th, I had the great pleasure of going to see the Police Reunion Tour in Dallas! It was a heck of a night! I took my friend/coworker Laura to the show that night! When we got there, it was pouring down rain! Fortunately, she had a rather large umbrella to shield the both of us from the majority of the rain (Aside from a few opportune puddles of water :) )
So, we got inside to the American Airlines Center, and took in the site of all sorts of retailers selling Police Merchandise. Of course, we indulged a little. Afterward, we made our way to our seats to await the coming show. We heard from one of the vender's, that the Police were late coming in from LA due to the downpour. But, in spite of the delay, it was a fabulous show! We both had a great time!
Often entertained in an auditorium,
Audaciouslee