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A viral TikTok video has sparked mixed reactions online, capturing a heartfelt moment between two Marine siblings.
The caption read: “This morning my daughter, a USMC Corporal, presented her boot camp EGA to her little brother as he completed his Crucible at boot camp. She has been a rockstar big sister and is a rockstar Marine. She’s headed to Japan in 45 days. This was so cool as a father and Marine myself.”
In the video, the brother is visibly emotional, tears streaming down his face as his sister hands him the small but powerful symbol of becoming a Marine. This poignant exchange not only highlighted the pride and connection shared between siblings in service but also resonated deeply with viewers, many of whom shared their own experiences in the comments.
For Marines, the EGA is more than just a piece of metal. It represents the culmination of the Crucible, which is the final and most grueling test of Marine Corps boot camp. It spans 54 hours and includes:
- 48 miles of marching, often while carrying heavy gear.
- 29 obstacle courses, designed to simulate combat scenarios and test teamwork.
- Nighttime navigation exercises and problem-solving under pressure.
- Limited sleep and food, adding to the challenge and simulating the hardships of combat environments.
“Only Marines know the pain & suffering we all go through for that little piece of metal—the EGA,” one user commented on TikTok. “Far & wide, Marines understand what it means. Those are tears of joy, happiness, and love only a few know. Semper Fi.”
“I gave my Grandpa my EGA from my Dress Blues at his funeral. He was a 30-year Marine. My other EGA will go with my Father when the time comes. Semper Fi.”
“Bro, y’all are all cringe. Do something hard like a selection or Ranger School before y’all start crying at basic training. It’s called basic for a reason. There are too many fake soldiers and Marines.”
However, such comments were in the minority and were swiftly countered by others, who pointed out the unique challenges of becoming a Marine and the significance of earning the EGA.
For the father who shared this moment, the event held layers of pride: pride in his daughter for being a “rockstar Marine” and role model, pride in his son for earning the title of Marine, and pride as a Marine himself witnessing the traditions of the Corps carried forward by his children.
According to a comment made by him, even his mother served in the Marine Corps.
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