Cunningham completes basic training

PFC Matthew R. Cunningham, son of Mr. and Mrs. Michael I. Cunningham of Lewes, recently completed basic training at Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island, S.C.  Cunningham successfully completed 12 weeks of training designed to challenge new Marine recruits both physically and mentally. Cunningham and his fellow recruits began their training each day at 5 a.m. by running three miles and performing calisthenics.

In addition to the physical conditioning program, Cunningham spent numerous hours in classroom and field assignments, including first aid, uniform regulations, combat water survival, marksmanship, hand-to-hand-combat and assorted weapons training.

Recruits performed close order drill and operated as a small infantry unit during field training. Cunningham also received instruction on the Marine Corps' core values: honor, courage and commitment, and what the words mean in guiding personal and professional conduct.

Cunningham and fellow recruits ended the training phase with the Crucible, a 54-hour team effort and problem-solving event. After graduation from Parris Island, he was stationed at Camp Lejeune, N.C., for four weeks of combat training. He will take additional training at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo. Cunningham is a 2000 graduate of Cape Henlopen High School and a 2007 graduate of Delaware Technical & Community College.