Local News

Two Fort Frye class of ’26 graduates become United States Marines

Two local students, Wyatt Duskey and Aiden Offenberger, graduated from United States Marine Corps recruit training at Parris Island, S.C., on Aug. 21.

Duskey and Offenberger graduated from Fort Frye High School as members of the Class of 2026. Just two days after their graduation on Memorial Day, they left home to begin Marine Corps recruit training. They were officially sworn in on May 26 at the Military Entrance Processing Station in Columbus.

Over the past several months, they faced the demanding physical and mental challenges of Marine Corps boot camp, culminating in the Crucible, a 54-hour final test in which recruits earn the title of Marine. Duskey and Offenberger completed their training together as members of the 2nd Recruit Battalion, Fox Company, Platoon 2053, which included 61 recruits. After completing their training, they earned the title of United States Marine.

To celebrate this accomplishment, family and friends traveled to Parris Island to watch the two men graduate. Joining them were a few local Marines who made the trip to South Carolina to support Duskey and Offenberger: Sgt. Mike Smith, Duskey's uncle; Cpl. Chucky Miller; Cpl. Mike Hinton; and Cpl. Matt Hinton.

Duskey and Offenberger said the local Marines' presence made the occasion especially meaningful, as they had the opportunity to welcome the two into the Marine Corps.

After the graduation ceremony, Sgt. Smith presented "Blood Brother" challenge coins to Pfc. Duskey, Pvt. Offenberger, Cpl. Miller, Cpl. Mike Hinton and Cpl. Matt Hinton. The gesture symbolized the bond shared between Marines and commemorated the special occasion as Duskey and Offenberger officially joined the Marine Corps.

Duskey and Offenberger said that, for both of them, who graduated from high school just days before beginning their Marine Corps journey, becoming Marines was an extraordinary milestone and one their hometown community proudly celebrated.

Their families said they are grateful for the opportunity to recognize the two local graduates and celebrate their tremendous accomplishment with the community.