Marine Corps Good Cookie Medal: Everything You Need to Know in Plain English
Alright, buckle up, because today I’m diving into my experience with the so-called “Good Cookie” medal, also known as the Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal. Now, I’ve heard it’s supposed to be a big deal, a sign that you’ve been a good little Marine for three whole years, no screw-ups, no trouble. Sounds simple enough, right?
So, I set out on this journey, determined to keep my nose clean. I followed the rules, did what I was told, and tried my best to stay out of the way of anything that could get me in hot water. I kept my uniform squared away, showed up on time, and basically became the poster child for a well-behaved Marine.
Days turned into weeks, weeks into months, and months into years. I watched as some of my buddies got into trouble here and there, some minor, some major. But me? I stayed on the straight and narrow. I was starting to think this whole “Good Cookie” thing was going to be a breeze. Three years felt like an eternity, but I was determined to make it through without a single blemish on my record.
- I kept going.
- I kept my head down.
- I kept waiting.
The three-year mark came and went and I still did my job. Turns out it is four years and I was kinda upset about that at first but kept going. Finally, after four long years, I get the news that I’ve earned it – the Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal. I double-checked my service record, no Article 15’s, no nothing. I had actually done it. I had managed to stay out of trouble for four whole years.
So, getting this medal, it wasn’t just about the ribbon or the recognition. It was about proving to myself that I could do it, that I could stay disciplined and focused for that long. It was a personal victory, a testament to my own willpower.
Now, I know some guys might say it’s just a “Good Cookie,” but for me, it represents something more. It represents the hard work, the dedication, and the perseverance it took to earn it. And yeah, maybe it’s not the Navy Cross or some high-speed award, but it’s mine, and I’m damn proud of it.
And to be honest, I learned a lot during those four years. I learned about discipline, about responsibility, and about the importance of staying true to yourself, even when it’s not easy. I also realized, I’m not as good at following rules as I thought, haha. But still, getting this Good Conduct Medal? Totally worth it. It’s not just a medal, it is a story. It’s a story of four years of my life, and it’s a story I’ll carry with me. I heard that after this one, you can get a star to put on it every four years. I’ll keep you all updated on that.
Lesson learned
Stay out of trouble, haha. Just kidding, kinda. But seriously, set a goal and stick to it, even if it takes years to achieve. You will feel good at the end. That is it for now, see ya!
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