The Marine Corps has made three commitments to America. They promise to make Marines, win our Nation’s battles, and develop quality citizens. These commitments alone give great sight into the characters of the Marines themselves. I am proud to say that I know a United States Marine and I believe she personifies every commitment made by the Corporation on a daily basis.
Alex Benda is not only a Marine, but she also represents a “quality citizen” who values persistence, respect, and faithfulness. She has embodied qualities of a Marine ever since she was young.
“I always tried finding ways to test my limits. I think that’s one of the most important things to do in life – test your limits. You never know what you’re fully capable of until you actually put yourself to work,” Benda told me over dinner on Sunday.
Currently a senior at Baylor University, she spent the summer enduring intense training in order to obtain this credible title. Not only did she have to get accustomed to early morning workouts, but also early nights.
“Life as a Marine is just so different,” Benda said with a smile. “It’s not anything like college life. It was definitely a wake up call.”
Although one might think that spending an entire summer in the Marines and then proceeding to start senior level college classes might warrant a break of some sort, Benda has already committed herself to studying for the LSAT. Law school is also in her life plan.
Upon asking Mccall Benda to describe her sister, she replied, “There is no single word to describe Alex. Well rounded is too vague.”
I full-heartedly agree with Mccall. Not many people today have the privilege of saying they are a Marine, a soon to be Law student, a member of Chi Omega, and a member of the Baylor Club Soccer Team.
As captain of Baylor’s club team, Benda is able to give light to her leadership skills. She is also Chi Omega’s Intramural Chair and oversees all of the sorority’s competitions.
“She does an incredible job of motivating the team. We play so well when we’re all together…We’re like a family,” said teammate and fellow Chi O Amy Wofford.
Although I am not on the club team, I am one of Benda’s sorority sisters and I agree with Wofford. We are a family. Maybe not by blood, but by compassion and faith.
In 1883 the Marine Corps adopted Semper Fidelis as its official motto, meaning “Always Faithful.” Benda embodies this statement. She constantly uses her talents for the good of others, whether they are teammates, sorority sisters, or common American citizens. She is not only a role model, but a prime example to all of what hard work and respect can accomplish you in life.
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