Editor’s note: The Source newspapers publish available information about Virgin Islanders who are serving their country in the military. For earlier notices, see previous months’ files in this section. Please e-mail information about yourself or any family member serving in these regards to visource@gmail.com. Provide the individual’s full name, age, rank, service branch or organization, home island, immediate family members in the Virgin Islands, brief description of education and training, and, if possible, a description of where the person is based or has been deployed. Please limit the information to about 200 words. We welcome photos.
June 28, 2012 (Fleet Hometown News Center) – Marine Corps Pvt. Akeem L. Bentick, son of Sarita Garcia of Orlando, Fla. and Ferron L. Bentick, of Christiansted, V. I., earned the title of United States Marine after graduating from recruit training at Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island, S. C.
For 13 weeks, Bentick stayed committed during some of the world’s most demanding entry-level military training in order to be transformed from civilian to Marine instilled with pride, discipline and the core values of honor, courage and commitment. Training subjects included close-order drill, marksmanship with an M-16A4 rifle, physical fitness, martial arts, swimming, military history, customs and courtesies.
One week prior to graduation, Bentick endured The Crucible, a 54-hour final test of recruits’ minds and bodies. Upon completion, recruits are presented the Marine Corps emblem and called Marines for the first time.
Bentick is a 2011 graduate of Freedom High School of Orlando, Fla.
July 13, 2012 (Fleet Hometown News Center) — Navy Seaman Chad A. Elwin, son of Dorie Elwin of St. Thomas, V. I. and Cecil Elwin, of Orlando, Fla., recently graduated with honors from Basic Electronics Technician School.
During the course at the Center for Surface Combat System Unit, Great Lakes, Ill, students receive introductory instruction in electronic circuit concepts, radar principles and the basics of radio transmitters and receivers. Studies also include procedures for repairing amplifiers, transmitters, receivers, and power supply lines.
Elwin is a 2006 graduate of Sts. Peter And Paul High School of St. Thomas, V. I. and joined the Navy in 2012. He is a 2010 graduate of University of Tampa, Tampa, Fla. with a BA degree.