File:Natchitoches Marine serves with RCT-6 DVIDS533487.jpg

English: The Marine of the day is Lance Cpl. Derick Turner, 19, radio operator, Regimental Combat Team 6, from Natchitoches, La. He has been in the Marine Corps since August,2010. “It was either college or the military for me,” he said. “I decided on the military for now. I chose the Marine Corps because I heard it was the best branch.” Turner’s hobbies include four-wheeling and listening to music. He also enjoys horseback riding. “I like to listen to rap, R&B;, country and a little bit of rock,” he said. “I grew up horseback riding, we have a whole farm with six horses. I’ve done it ever since I can remember.” Turner grew up on a farm for most of his life. “I loved growing up on a farm,” Turner said. “We had cows, horses, goats, pigs and we used to have chickens and two dogs too. It’s quiet and you can do whatever you want. I’m pretty simple and just keep to myself.” Although he hasn’t been in the Marine Corps for very long, Turner says he’s enjoyed his time serving. “The first year was pretty rough, but it’s rough for anyone,” Turner added with a smile. “It gets a lot better after that and the money is good with no bills.” Turner says he is close to earning the rank of corporal – one of his goals in the Marine Corps. He also wants to earn a green belt in the Marine Corps Martial Arts Program and eventually become a black belt. After that, he plans on going to school. “I want to start college soon too,” he said. “I want to go for criminal justice and work my way up to the FBI or U.S. Marshals.” Turner says he is enjoying his current deployment and so far his favorite part has been in Musa Qal’eh because he got to cross train and learn some of the data communications field. “I’d like to give a shout out to my parents for the support they have for me out here,” he said. “And to my brother Donavon too.”