MARINE CORPS AIR STATION CHERRY POINT, N.C. -- Meet the Marine
Being a Marine goes past the uniform, haircuts and swagger. It’s a whole Marine Concept. They are a group of exceptional human beings who embody the Corps’ ethos of honor, courage and commitment. Now, here is your chance to Meet the Marine.
Name: Lance Cpl. Gabriella M. Phillip
Age: 18
Hometown: Poughkeepsie, New York
Military Occupational Specialty: 0111, administrative specialist
U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Gabriella M. Phillip is the first military member, let alone Marine, in her family. Although she encountered some doubts from family and friends, she prevailed. Phillip joined the Marine Corps on Nov. 27, 2017, and currently serves as an administrative specialist assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina.
“No other branch hit me like the Marine Corps did,” said Phillip. “Unlike the other branches of the military that specialize in one aspect, whether it be the Air Force in the skies and the Navy at sea, the Marine Corps does it all.”
Since earning the title of Marine, Phillip says she has gained a great deal of responsibility while maintaining a strong physical standard. Phillip has utilized the Marine Corps Martial Arts Program (MCMAP) to earn her gray and green belt and plans on increasing a belt level with every rank that she earns.
MCMAP is only one of her extracurricular activities, Phillip has expressed interest in participating in the Security Augmentation Force (SAF). SAF is a contingency force to help augment the Provost Marshal’s Office in case of major disasters or terrorist attacks.
“SAF would be a great opportunity to push my boundaries, it would be a great experience in addition to normal Marine Corps responsibilities,” said Phillip. “Utilizing the Marine Corps for higher education would really benefit me and is one of my top priorities as well.”
Marines can utilize their tuition assistance after two years of service. Phillip plans on staying proactive until then with her participation in MCMAP and SAF. In addition, Phillip is working toward her goal of meritoriously gaining the rank of Corporal.
“Never give up or let anyone tell you that you can’t accomplish your goals,” said Phillip. “It’s a great feeling knowing that you can overcome everyone who doubted whether you could endure the process of becoming a United States Marine. I proved all of them wrong and I’m here now.”