Four U of I alumni commissioned in Marine Corps

April 1, 2009
By Katie Salter
Staff writer

While many University of Illinois alumni struggle to figure out what to do with their lives after graduation, at least a few have found their calling. On Friday, March 20, 2009, four U of I graduates were commissioned as 2nd Lieutenants in the United States Marine Corps.

Among them was 2nd Lieutenant David Clary, who was recognized with a PFT Certificate for outstanding physical fitness performance, placing him in the top 5% of all his peers for physical fitness. Clary graduated from UIS in the Fall of 2008 with a double major in Legal Studies and Communication. Clary worked for the UIS Journal as a photographer in 2008, as well as for the UIS Campus Channel. Clary’s exemplary leadership potential draws from a number of sources; he is an alum of the McLean County 4-H, and has played an active role on the UIS campus, serving as Chairman of the College Republicans and President of Blue Crew.

Other U of I Alumni accepting commissions were 2nd Lt. Dean Collins, of the Urbana Champaign Campus, 2nd Lt. Cameron Taylor of the Chicago campus and 2nd Lt. Michael Wieland, also from the Chicago campus.

Ironically, 2nd Lt. Clary was also featured in a political attack video entitled “Generation Chickenhawk,” filmed by Max Blumenthal in 2007, which criticized College Republicans for not taking a more active role in serving our country. Obviously, Blumenthal, like many Americans, did not fully understand the process of becoming a military officer.

In order to be considered as a Marine Candidate, young men and women must first offer proof of a college degree, with a GPA above 2.0, and meet strict physical fitness standards. Once admitted as a candidate, recent graduates must successfully complete the Officer Candidates Class at Officer Candidates School (OCS), located in Quantico, Virginia. This strenuous 10 week course evaluates aspiring Marine officers for academic, physical fitness, and leadership potential. After graduating OCS, candidates may accept their commission, and take an oath of office. In addition, newly commissioned officers must complete 6 more months of rigorous officer training at The Basic School in Quantico, as well as any additional training required by their command.