Military digest 7/1/04

Jonesboro, Ill., native completes Marine basics

Marine Corps Pvt. Richard Laster, son of Debra K. and Richard O. Laster of Jonesboro, Ill., recently completed 12 weeks of basic training at Marine Corps Recruit Depot, San Diego, Calif. Laster and fellow recruits ended the training phase with The Crucible, a 54-hour team evolution. The recruits are presented the Marine Corps Emblem and addressed as Marines for the first time in their careers after completion. Laster is a 2003 graduate of Anna-Jonesboro Community High School in Anna, Ill.

Mungle receives training on USS Harry S. Truman

Navy Seaman Tyler J. Mungle, son of Tina M. and Tracy J. Mungle of Sedgewickville, Mo., recently conducted Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX) in preparation for upcoming overseas deployment, while assigned to the nuclear powered aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman, homeported in Norfolk Va. Mungle Joined the Navy in June 2003.

-- From staff reports