Service notes

Private First Class James C. Santiago, 19, of Monroe graduated from United States Marine Corps boot camp at Marine Corps Recruit Depot at Parris Island in South Carolina in September.

PFC Santiago successfully completed 13 weeks of intensive basic training at Parris Island as one of 84 recruits in Training Platoon 2077.

While in basic training PFC Santiago earned the Marine Sharp Shooter Badge and was promoted to the rank of private first class.

Following ten days home on leave he reported to Camp LeJeune for one month at Military Combat Training, then Military Occupation Specialty school.



Navy Seaman Robert A. Winter, a 2005 graduate of Monroe-Woodbury High School, recently graduated from the fire control technician school with honors.

During the course at Naval Training Center in Great Lakes, Ill., students receive instruction in the electronic weapons systems installed aboard U.S. warships. Studies include operating principles and procedures for radar, digital computers and related shipboard equipment used to control the firing of guns, missiles and torpedoes.

Winter joined the Navy in November 2011.



Army Reserve Pvt. Corey Creque has graduated from basic infantry training at Fort Benning in Columbus, Ga.

During the nine weeks of training, the soldier received training in drill and ceremonies, weapons, map reading, tactics, military courtesy, military justice, physical fitness, first aid, and Army history, core values and traditions.

Additional training included development of basic combat skills and battlefield operations and tactics, and experiencing use of various weapons and weapons defenses available to the infantry crewman.

Creque is the son of Jessica Rosario and stepson of Felix Rosario of Monroe. He is a 2011 graduate of Monroe-Woodburry High School.