Parris Island celebrates women in the Marine Corps

BEAUFORT CO., SC (WTOC) - It was a big day for women Marines, as they celebrate quite a milestone.

"It was on this day, the 13th of February 1943 that the Marine Corps Women's Reserve was formed," said Lt. Col. Maria Marte, 4th Recruit Training Battalion Commander.

So, on this 69th anniversary, 4th Recruit Battalion hosted a special celebration, bringing in women Marine veterans from all over the country, giving them a chance to see the new changes at Parris Island and remember their rich history.

"This is like coming home, it feels so good," said Penny Cockaletus, Marine veteran. "Makes you cry."

"It's like a reunion," said Sandra Torres-Pintos, Ret. Sgt. Maj. "It really is awesome. I'm seeing people that I served with in all the different capacities I've had in the Marine Corps. It's just great."

"One thing about the Marine Corps, it really bonds people together and it all starts here," said Heidi Linscott, Marine Veteran.

After making a career in the Marine Corps, this is Janet Clay and Heidi Linscott's first time back on Parris Island since graduating from boot camp nearly 30 years ago.

"Scary," said Clay.

"It is," said Linscott. "When I walked on the catwalk, it's like everything flooded back in, the memories from the last time. It was the best thing I ever did in my life."

While the rich tradition continues, these Marines say lots of changes have taken place.

"Its changed," said Penny Cockaletus. "We got picked up at the bus station. We were taught how to display yourself as a lady, how to wear makeup. We were taught how to dress. You could never wears jeans or slacks on an installation."

"They wanted us to wear makeup," said Elena Branzaru. "It was bright red lipstick or no lipstick, bright red fingernails or no fingernail color at all."

But these Marines say they'll never forget the important lessons they learned here.

"It taught me responsibility, courage to do things I didn't think I could. Esprit de corps," said Clay.

History that will continue for generations to come.

As part of the celebration, they'll bury a time capsule filled with all kinds of memorabilia on base.

They now also have pictures and stories of women Marines from the past displayed throughout 4th Battalion in hopes of keeping that history alive.

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