You are presented with contemporary physical theories in lecture and in your textbook. In the laboratory you will apply the theories to real-world problems by comparing your application of those theories with reality. You will clarify your ideas by: answering questions and solving problems before you come to the lab; performing experiments and having discussions with classmates in the lab; and writing lab reports after you leave. Each laboratory has a set of problems that ask you to make decisions about the real world. As you work through the problems in this laboratory manual, remember the goal is not to make lots of measurements. The goal is to examine your ideas about the real world.
Marine, you are about to embark on a journey that will test your strength, courage, and resilience in ways you cannot yet fully grasp. It's a path filled with challenges and uncertainties, but it's also one that will shape you into the warrior you were meant to be. I hope my words help you form realistic expectations, balance hope and fear, as you serve your country.
For those of you currently separated from your loved ones, my heart goes out to you. The distance can be painful. When you finally reunite, whether in weeks or months, I encourage you to share your experiences. Perhaps my story can be a starting point for those conversations, a way to bridge the gap between Marine and family.
My greatest wish is this account offers you healing, a sense of normalcy and the confidence that others have been where you are and returned. Combat changes us all, but with understanding and support, we find our way back to peace. Remember, your loved ones are standing with you, and making sacrifices for a cause in which they believe. May this bring you closer together and remind you of the incredible strength that resides within the Marine Corps family.
Stay strong, stay safe, and may your journey lead you back home, just as mine did.
Semper Fidelis,
Jerry Turner
Former Sergeant, USMC
P.S. Confronting our own fear is akin to a tactical reconnaissance of the soul. It's in this encounter we uncover our truest self, revealing the strength and resilience that defines our character.