AUSTIN, Texas — When three brothers choose to take on one of the world’s most demanding challenges side by side, people take notice. That’s exactly what happened when Roger, Hunter, and William Brunson, triplets from Texas, enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and reported to recruit training on July 20, 2025.
Each brother had their own reasons for joining, but they were united by a single purpose: to earn the title of Marine.
What started as a casual conversation with a recruiter quickly evolved into a shared mission. As they delved deeper into the Marine Corps’ storied legacy, rigorous structure, and unwavering standards, the Brunson brothers realized they weren’t just intrigued, they were ready to commit to something bigger than themselves.
“I always knew I wanted to do something that pushed me beyond my limits,” said Pvt. Roger Brunson, the oldest. “We’ve always done everything together, so it felt right.” Pfc. Hunter Brunson, the middle brother, agreed. “We’re competitive by nature,” he said. “If one of us was going to take on something this tough, the rest of us weren’t going to sit it out.”Pvt. William Brunson, the youngest, said he was motivated by the chance to grow and serve. “I wanted to challenge myself,” he said. “And I couldn’t imagine my brothers doing this without me.”
After months of preparation in the Marine Corps Delayed Entry Program, the three were shipped to Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego. The Brunson brothers were assigned the same platoon and remained together for most of their training. Their bond gave them a quiet strength that stood out among their peers.
After 13 weeks of physical and mental challenges, all three brothers achieved their goal, graduating on Oct. 17, 2025.
The triplets said Recruit Training tested them individually but brought them closer together as a family. “We’ve always been close, but this made us better brothers,” Hunter said. “If one of us has something to say, the others listen now.”
Their recruiter, Sgt. Jdante Washington said the Brunson brothers are a great example of standing together for something greater than themselves. “Three different personalities and one shared mission,” said Washington when talking about the Brunson brothers. “Earning the title of Marine.”
Now, as newly graduated Marines, the Brunson triplets are preparing for the next chapter in their service. Whether their paths take them to different duty stations or the same unit, they know their bond as brothers and as Marines will remain unbreakable. “Being triplets made us close,” William said. “Being Marines made us stronger.”
Their journey serves as a reminder that anyone willing to accept the challenge can earn the title Marine.
