1. No one care more about your career than you, so you better care a hell of a lot! It better outweigh the drinking and partying.

2. No one will make decisions for you, so you better make morally correct ones. Loyalty will drive this, so where does your loyalty lie?

3. Under no circumstances should you jeopardize your character to be “liked.” People are fluid in your life, and the ones worth a damn will stick around.

If you do these three things, you’ll be able to have a fulfilled career. It won’t matter if it’s four years or 20 plus years! Today I re-enlisted for another four years, which will take me to over 17 years in total. The goal is to retire with having served 20 plus years as a Marine.