North Carolina musicians to march to Marine Corps beat

Photo By Sgt. Antonio Rubio | Paul O’Dacre and his dog, Killian, pose for a photo outside Recruiting Substation Wilmington in N.C, February 16, 2018, where his Marine Corps recruiters mentally and physically prepare him and other applicants for the challenges of Marine Corps Recruit Training. He has been playing for the euphonium for the last eight years. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Sgt Antonio J. Rubio/Released)  

WILMINGTON, NC, UNITED STATES

03.12.2018

Story by Sgt. Antonio Rubio 

4th Marine Corps District

MEOP is an elite program, within an elite organization, and provides outstanding opportunities for performance, travel, education, and adventure within the brotherhood of the Marine Corps.

“When I heard the details of the MEOP program, initially it sounded almost too good to be true,” said O’Dacre. “I thought there’s no way (the Marine Corps) is going to pay me to play my instrument. But after I’ve done my research I found that this is for real and how could I possible pass up this opportunity?”
Both musicians have played the euphonium for more than seven years, averaging two hours of individual practice every day. Paul O’Dacre will join the enlisted ranks upon receipt of his high school diploma from E.A. Laney High School. David Beresoff spent two years at the University of North Carolina at Pembroke where he decided to pursue a career in the Marine Corps as a professional musician; he is simply waiting on his day to ship to boot camp to begin his career.
“As I got through college and gained more experience on my instrument I felt it was time for me to join,” said Beresoff. “I learned I’m not really good at school, I’m lacking in some academic areas but my music is strong so I wanted to take some time off from school and build some discipline.”
To qualify for MEOP, musicians must complete the application process which consists of: a screening form, video submission of a performance, and a live audition. Once qualified, musicians enter the Delayed Entry Program to secure a position in the Marine Corps as a musician, and prepare themselves mentally and physically for recruit training.
“I didn’t feel I was physically ready, I’ve never been into sports so fitness wasn’t a big deal to me,” said Beresoff. “Through the DEP we do all types of workout that have helped me achieve my goals. I can see the gradual improvements every day and it makes me feel great.”
Discipline, teamwork and attention to detail which leads to success as a Marine are characteristics that caught Paul O’Dacre’s attention.
“The thing that’s driving me the most to enlist into the armed forces, more specifically the Marines, is the standard of excellence that they hold themselves too.” said O’Dacre. “Every time I come to the recruiting office I’m always astounded how professional the Marines are, the level of character they display and I’ve always wanted to hold myself to those higher standards and be a part of something bigger than myself.”

Both men stated that music is one of their greatest passions in life and want to pursue a career in the music industry. With their acceptance into MEOP, opportunities have already begun to open for these talented musicians.

“I’ve already been offered some gigs from being shown that I have the talent to be accepted into the musician program,” said Beresoff. “I’m excited to be a part of this and I can’t wait to begin my journey as a United States Marine.”

For more information in regards to the Musician Enlistment Option Program or the Marine Corps, contact your local Marine Corps Recruiting Station or the Recruiting Station Raleigh’s Executive Officer, Capt. Jared Hollis at [phone] or via e-mail, [e-mail].

• Date Taken: 03.12.2018
• Date Posted: 03.12.2018 10:11
• Story ID: 269002
• Location: WILMINGTON, NC, US
• Hometown: WILMINGTON, NC, US