Detroit native a Marine Corps drill instructor on Parris Island

Staff Sgt. Jeremy Tolhurst currently serves as a Marine Corps drill instructor with Alpha Company, 1st Recruit Training Battalion, at Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, S.C. Tolhurst joined the Marine Corps in November 2003 and became a drill instructor in July 2013. “I became a drill instructor because I wanted to instill what the Marine Corps is about and why we’re here,” said Tolhurst, 29, from Detroit. “I wanted to help in the reawakening of our Corps. For the families to thank you for changing their Marines and making them men and better people, I know I’m making that difference when it gets to graduation day.” About 600 Marine Corps drill instructors shape the approximately 20,000 recruits who come to Parris Island annually into basic United States Marines. Parris Island is home to entry-level enlisted training for 50 percent of males and 100 percent of females in the Marine Corps. (Photo by Cpl. Caitlin Brink)