2011-05-05 One of Our Own
May 05, 2011 - "ONE OF OUR OWN" By, FF Jack Carroll
I would like to share a little bit of success to all. Our very own FF Ryan Carroll has wrapped up his School of Infantry Training at United States Marine Corps Camp Geiger,MCAS New River, North Carolina. Ryan graduated Friday May 6, 2011. He has finished with a perfect GPA. Scored 100% on all written tests and practical applications. Ryan was chosen #1 of a 6-way tiebreaker for his character, work ethic, leadership, commitment, and his overall dedication to helping others. He not only earned the right to be top of his class. Ryan was selected to be the only one in his battalion to actually fire one of the most sophisticated weapon systems in world (during training). Yes its like catching your first fire. Ryan was very apprehensive when he started his training and often referred to it as "Top Gun" school. Well needless to say; FF, Pfc Ryan Carroll has earned the "Top Gun" spot at USMC SOI ITB (0352). Congratulations Son, You've made us all proud.
Ryan has been a member of Providence since October 15, 2008. Though a young official member on his birthday at the age of 16, he was no stranger to the company. Ryan spent many of his younger years with his Dad (FF Jack Carroll) helping out around 29. Though Ryan had aspirations of being a Firefighter, his real passion was to serve his country. To serve in the United States Marine Corps. He always carried that backpack wherever he went. Since he was three years old. Now we know why Ryan never had any problems with carrying his Dads gear coming back from fire calls.
Shortly after graduating from Loch Raven HS, Ryan signed up for USMC Delayed Entry Program at the local recruiting station. He continued volunteering at Providence, trained with Lt. D. Ross (his mentor) through the mountains of Cotoctin; in preparation for one of the most grueling 12 weeks any young man would ever face. "USMC BOOT CAMP"! Ryan entered boot camp one month after his 18th birthday as the youngest recruit on Parris Island. Graduated February 11, 2011 as a Squad Leader of his Platoon, maintained high honors throughout, as well as earning the rank of Private First Class prior to graduation. Ryan continues the legacy of his Grandfather who fought in one of the toughest battles of Korea as a Marine.
As he did at Providence, Ryan embraced mentors young and old, always eager to learn something new and challenging. FF Carroll will continue to be a part of the Providence family throughout his six year commitment with the Marine Corps. He will currently be stationed in Jacksonville NC at Camp Lejeune. Working, training, and most likely deploying within the year. Like any job, Ryan is the new kid on the block, however when he gets the opportunity to come home; you can bet he will be coming by to see us all. Though currently licensed by the State of North Carolina and the US Government to drive a HUMVEE with some of those crazy weapon packages, we will have to keep him in the back of the fire engine to keep him humble.
Once again great job Ryan, we are all very proud of you.
Dad.
