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    Finding Freedom In the Marines

    Finding Freedom in the Marines

    Photo By Lance Cpl. Payton Goodrich | U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Jason Flessner, a native of Phoenix, and a weapons instructor...... read more read more

    QUANTICO, VA, UNITED STATES

    02.23.2024

    Courtesy Story

    Marine Corps Recruiting Command           

    QUANTICO, Va. -- Meet U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Jason Flessner, a primary marksmanship instructor at The Basic School on Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, and a native of, Phoenix. His journey with the U.S. Marine Corps isn't just a tale of duty, it's a narrative woven with six years of unwavering growth and unexpected leadership ventures.

    Before enlisting in the Marines, Flessner was in search of freedom. He ventured out, working for gun manufacturers while navigating the challenges of community college. His life took a turn when he crossed paths with a tight-knit group of Marines at his community college. These Marines, who had once served together, had moved to Arizona and shared a bond that resonated with Flessner. The allure of their brotherhood and how they acted together drew him in and inspired him to join the Marine Corps.

    "I liked how they carried themselves, acted and the brotherhood they shared, and I wanted to be a part of that and experience it for myself," expressed Flessner.

    From that moment, Flessner’s life led him into the Marine Corps. Basic training, the School of Infantry and deployments with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit became chapters in his career. He found himself traveling to places he never thought he would go, and doing things he never thought possible.

    "Being on the MEU was an amazing experience," Flessner recalled. "I got to work with the recon unit that was attached to the MEU and work different small boat operations with them and participate in multiple training exercises I never thought I would get the chance to do like jumping out of and fast roping out of helicopters."

    Throughout his Marine Corps journey, Flessner seized educational opportunities and schooling, learning public speaking and how to teach other Marines. These skills opened doors to various leadership positions, from the beginning of his career.

    "I've had the opportunity to hold multiple leadership positions even as a junior Marine," stated Flessner. “From being a fireteam leader, a squad leader and now as a Primary Marksmanship Instructor teaching new Marine Corps officers the basics of being a rifleman.”

    Currently serving as a PMI within the Weapons Training Battalion, Flessner’s role is pivotal in shaping the proficiency of his fellow Marines. His knowledge and expertise are not just contributions but they are keystones in the Corps' foundation to every Marines training.

    "The Marine Corps has given me different ways to grow, not just as a person but also as a leader," Jason shared. "I've been fortunate to travel around the world, experience and learn from diverse leadership styles and experience things I never would have without the Marines. These experiences have allowed me to mold and shape my approach to how I teach, my leadership style and my life."

    As Flessner reflects on his Marine Corps journey, he advocates the Marine Corps experience to everyone. "I'd recommend the Marine Corps to everybody. I’ve loved the last six years of my life so far. If you're in the Marine Corps and think it's not for you, keep giving it another chance. I promise there's a place for you that you will love."
    For those contemplating the Marine Corps, Flessner strongly suggests to go and find a Marine and talk to them.

    “Recruiters are great people who will help guide you to who you want to be and help you find what you want to do. Honestly, any Marine will be happy to speak with you about their experience, and almost all of them will tell you to go for it." Flessner said.

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    NEWS INFO

    Date Taken: 02.23.2024
    Date Posted: 03.11.2024 09:15
    Story ID: 464553
    Location: QUANTICO, VA, US
    Hometown: PHOENIX, AZ, US

    Web Views: 38
    Downloads: 1

    PUBLIC DOMAIN