Military digest 1/30/03

Bequette completes basic training

PERRYVILLE, Mo. -- Marine Corps Pfc. Brandy L. Bequette, daughter of Kathleen Pingel of Perryville, recently completed basic training at Marine Corps Recruit Depot in Parris Island, S.C., and was meritoriously promoted to her current rank.

Bequette successfully completed 12 weeks of training designed to challenge new Marine recruits both physically and mentally.

Bequette and fellow recruits began their training at 5 a.m. by running three miles and performing calisthenics. In addition to the physical conditioning program, Bequette spent numerous hours in classroom and field assignments which included learning first aid, uniform regulations, combat water survival, marksmanship, hand-to-hand combat and assorted weapons training.

Bequette is a 2002 graduate of Perryville High School.

-- From staff reports