SPECIAL TO THE HT
MEEKER | Drew D. Drake and Aidan A. Tapia, both 2025 graduates of Meeker High School, became United States Marines on Oct. 24, 2025.
Drake is the son of Daniel and Julie Drake and brother to USMC Combat Engineer Sergeant Ethan E. Drake. Tapia is the son of Arturo and Amy Tapia and brother to Ashton.
USMC bootcamp is the longest and most mentally and physically rigorous of any military branch. At the end of the 13-week training, recruits complete the “Crucible” which is a 54-hour, 45-mile test of their fitness, knowledge and fortitude.
Both Marines are now attending further USMC combat training at Camp Pendleton, California. After completion, they will attend further occupation schooling before being assigned a permanent duty station.
Aidan Tapia
Drew Drake