David Bussing: From Student to Marine

By Olivia Kavidias

     The United States Marines is a branch of the Armed Forces made to protect, deliver tasks, and provide power projection. High school is a level of education for students in grade nine to twelve, made to prepare and educate them for college. David Bussing, a Glenelg High School Senior, will have participated in both by August 21st, the day he ships out. “My grandpa was in the Navy and so was my dad and my mom’s dad, so I come from a military family and it’s always been something I wanted to do,” says Bussing, explaining his profound interest in joining. Ever since Bussing was young, he knew he wanted to do something like his father, but didn’t quite decide what part of the Marines and when he would apply until the beginning of high school.

     Throughout high school, Bussing discovered he wanted to join the Marines through classes like weights with Mr. Schaffer, who was friends with a local recruiter and got him involved. Also, he explains how high school prepared him not necessarily education wise, but taught him work ethic, and how it helped him explore his interests and who he was. Doing things throughout his high school career, like being drum major his Senior year, have been some of his favorite memories of high school.

     But the jump from high school to being in the Marines is not easy; in fact, there is lots of preparation and tons of paperwork. Until his shipping date, Bussing prepares himself for the physical rigor and signs many papers. With his contract, he will be on active duty for four years, and will spend four years in the reserve, starting his active duty on November 18th. What is he looking forward to most in the next eight years? “Being a part of something bigger than just me, supporting my country, protecting people, and serving for the greater good.”

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