To become a United States Marine, you have to be tough, intelligent and willing to push yourself past the norms of an ordinary life. For Douglass High School wrestler Charles Pearson, those three qualities checked all of his boxes when he was deciding which branch of the military he wanted to join. Now a senior, Pearson is focused on finishing his final year of high school wrestling and preparing his body and mind for boot camp in the summer.
“I’m a senior this year and I joined the Marine Corps to become the best person I can become,” said Pearson.
Like many recruits before him, Pearson had an idea as to what he would like to do as a United States Marine. Pearson was able to land a job that he is both happy with and excited to perform.
“My MOS (Military Occupational Specialty) is Aviation Electronic Technician,” said Pearson. “This will be my job as an active duty Marine.”
Active duty means just that. Pearson will serve in the Marines fulltime and is thinking about pushing himself to a 20-year career. Meaning he could retire at the age of 38.
Being active also gives Pearson many other benefits such as health care and the GI Bill, which he can use to attend college while serving in the Marines or he can choose to attend college once his enlistment is over.
Pearson said the recruiting process was not as difficult as some have said. In fact, it wasn’t difficult at all.
“The recruiting process went really well for me,” said Pearson. “And my family was proud of me for joining the Marines.”
As a student-athlete at Douglass, Pearson understands what hard work is thanks to his time in the wrestling room. Pearson said wrestling has taught him to, “never give up,” and to push through the pain and exhaustion to reach your goals. Two skills he will use while serving in the Marine Corps. Pearson is currently wrestling at 170-pounds. During his time as a wrestler, Pearson said he has made many great memories and learned a lot of skills he will take with him to the Marine Corps.
“My favorite memory is being able to wrestle my senior year even though there is a pandemic,” said Pearson.
Congratulations to Charles Pearson for being named the Future Marine Athlete of the Month.
