South Korea’s Marine Corps Training Group (MCTG) held a graduation ceremony for 299 recruits of Class 1312 on Thursday at the unit’s parade ground. The event was presided over by Brigadier General Lee Jong Moon, the commander of the Training Group.
Over 1,000 people attended the ceremony, including unit commanders and staff, the commander of the U.S. Marine Corps in Korea, members of the Marine Corps Veterans Association, and the families and friends of the recruits, who came to support and celebrate their graduation.
The Pohang Marine Corps Veterans Association and senior peers from the 312th Marine Corps class, marking a thousand-class difference, also joined the event to show strong camaraderie. After the ceremony, they spent time with recruits whose families could not attend, further demonstrating their bond.
The ceremony included the singing of the national anthem, the oath of graduation, the declaration of Marine qualifications, a recital of Marine pride, the presentation of awards for outstanding performance in training, and the return of training flags. During the declaration of Marine qualifications, Brigadier General Lee announced that Class 1312 had officially become Marines, drawing warm applause and encouragement from attendees for these proud individuals ready to fulfill their duties nationwide.
The 299 recruits, who enlisted on December 2, completed rigorous training, including basic military training and specialized Marine Corps programs. They endured harsh winter conditions, conquered the summit of Cheonja Peak, and earned the honor of wearing the coveted red badge, signifying their transformation into elite Marines.
Among the new Marines was Private Song Su Wan, a former firefighter who decided to enlist after being inspired by a senior firefighter who was also a Marine veteran. Private Song remarked, “Whether I wear firefighting gear or a military uniform, the commitment and mindset of serving the nation and its people remain the same. I will give my utmost during my service and, after discharge, strive to be an even better firefighter driven by the Marine Corps spirit.”
Brigadier General Lee encouraged the recruits, saying, “Move forward into active duty with confidence, carrying the pride of the fiery red badge on your chest. I am certain that you will become steadfast warriors capable of defeating any adversary and the strong backbone of South Korea.”
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