Military digest 8/1/02

Midshipman completes 'Plebe Summer' session

Navy Midshipman Sean M. Kinney, son of Robin P. Kinney of Cape Girardeau, recently completed six weeks of U.S. Naval Academy Indoctrination (Plebe Summer) in Annapolis, Maryland.

This demanding, fast-paced orientation begins four years of preparation for commissioning as naval or Marine Corps officers. During Plebe Summer, Kinney learned basic skills in seamanship, navigation, infantry drill, sailing and marksmanship. Kinney also learned the Brigade of Midshipmen's Honor Concept.

Kinney is a 2002 graduate of Cape Girardeau Central High School.

Jackson resident takes part inMarine training

Marine Corps Pvt. Andrew R. Jackson, son of Rebecca G. Jackson of Jackson, recently completed basic training at Marine Corps Recruit Depot in San Diego.

Jackson successfully completed twelve weeks of training at 5 a.m. by running three miles and performing calisthenics. In addition to the physical conditioning program, Jackson 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.

Jackson and fellow recruits ended the training phase with The Crucible, a 54-hour team effort, problem solving evolution which culminated with an emotional ceremony in which the recruits were presented the Marine Corps Emblem, and were addressed as "Marines" for the first time since boot camp began.

Jackson is a 2001 graduate of Jackson High School.

-- From staff reports