by Cpl. Dylan Walters

Growing Up

Ever since Sgt. Jonathan Mendozacorona witnessed the decision his parents made leaving their well-paying jobs in Mexico City, MX to move to the United States for the well being of their children, Mendozacorona was determined to make his parents proud.  “I joined the Marine Corps because growing up I watched my parents sacrifice so much so my sister and I could have better opportunities,” said Mendozacorona.

Mendozacorona, a recruiter with Recruiting Sub Station Lexington with Recruiting Station Columbia, was determined to make history in his family by being the first to join the United States Marine Corps.

“I grew up watching my parents fight for their American dream,” said Mendozacorona. “My mother went from being an accountant to flipping burgers at McDonald’s, and my father left his own business and became a landscaper.”

Although his family faced many hardships pursuing the American dream, Mendozacorona wanted to create a new legacy for his family.   “I wanted to give back to the country that became my home,” said Mendozacorona. “I wanted the Marine Corps because it is a family that prides itself on hard work, determination and selfless service–all attributes that I believe in.”

Creating a Legacy

After six years of service, Mendozacorona has inspired his younger sister to take the challenge as well. “When my sister told me she wanted to follow in my footsteps and join the Marines, it was powerful,” said Mendozacorona. “Our family will remember us as the pioneers that took the challenge to better ourselves and change the course of generational success.”

When asking his sister, Yessica Mendozacorona, why she wanted to take the same path as him she stated, “After boot camp he gained a lot of confidence. He spoke up more for himself.” She added, “Seeing that in him made me want to see that in myself.”  Yessica Mendozacorona joined the Delayed Entry Program last September and is often questioned as to why she chose the Marine Corps. “To be the best you have to join the best,” said Mendozacorona. “The hardest challenges open up the best doors.”

Having made history in his family, Mendozacorona wants to help inspire his sister to create her own success story through the Marine Corps. “She has supported me through my entire journey, and now it is time for her to build her own legacy.”