Below is a link to Matthew's training calendar if you want to continue to follow his training to pray specifically.
http://www.pendleton.usmc.mil/schools/soi/new/mct/trainingcalendar.htm

Church just out of Boot

Just before leaving to MCT Sep 9, 2008

Camp Pendelton after saying our goodbyes.

I cannot begin to express as a mom the swirl of emotion I am experiencing. Matthew seemed contemplative as he moved into the second phase of his training and had to say goodbye. He is a man now, and I have to let him go on to his dream. As soon as I have words for the experience of having him home and sending him away, I will update the blog and add more pictures. Until then, I will say that I thank God that my boy is in His hands and God cares for him more than I.

From Matt

Hey everybody, I'm back! Ooh-rah! It's nice to be home for a couple days. On September 9th I report to SOI, MCT (School of Infantry and Marine Combat Training) for my combat training. Straight from there I go to my MOS (Military Occupational Specialty) school and then straight to a duty station. I'm not sure where my duty station will be but I may have a choice so that's something to hope for. I just wanted thank everyone that wrote me and prayed for me; I'm not sure where I'd be now if I didn't have the Lord to lean on. Thank you all also for supporting me in defending your freedom and supporting my mother as she has to go for long stretches at a time without being able to see me. The next time I will be home will probably not be for at least 6 or 8 months. Thank you again for all your prayer and support.

Ooh-Rah and Semper Fi!

Motivational Run on Family Day. The very first time we see him since June 1st.

Forming up for Liberty on Family Day

Dad sees his son for the first time in three months

...a proud moment

Derek, Isaac, Hannah, Samuel, Grammy & Rebekah waiting for graduation ceremony to begin.

Graduation Formation

Parade Rest posture