HOMESTEAD, Fla. – A high school senior who enlisted in the U.S. Marines was given a surprise graduation Friday just before he joins the corps.
Jainiel Price, 18, was told to wear his cap and gown to the rehearsal for Homestead Senior High School so other students would see how to properly wear the outfit next week for their graduation.
Instead, he was handed his diploma on stage in front of his family and peers.
"I'm a very proud mom," Cheneika Price said. "He's come a long way and I just wish him the best. I hope everything works out for him. He's a good kid and I wish him much success. This is something he's always dreamed of."
Price, who enlisted July 1, 2015, will join the Marines on Monday, a day before his scheduled graduation. He will be in training for 13 weeks in Parris Island, South Carolina.
During his time in high school, Price was a respected leader in the AFJROTC program, holding jobs such as operations squadron commander, ravens commander and honor guard training officer.
He also worked outside of school for a year as a waiter at Cracker Barrel.
Price enlisted in the U.S. Marines for four years and plans to obtain a college degree after his initial tour of duty. After college, Price hopes to become a commissioned officer in the Marines.