11/02/2026
A Legacy of Service: One Family’s Generations of Military Honor
MARINE CORPS RECRUIT DEPOT PARRIS ISLAND, S.C.--Not many people decide to join the military; less than 1% of the U.S. population currently serves. However, one family has uniquely dedicated their time to serving this country.
From a mother who served eight years in the Air Force National Guard to a 30-year Chief Warrant Officer 5 in the Marine Corps, the Figueroa family has made it a point to serve. Now, their youngest son has followed in their footsteps and begun his journey at Parris Island.
Casey Figueroa started his training on Parris Island August 4, 2026, with Platoon 1066, Alpha Company, 1st Recruit Training Battalion. As he navigated his training, he kept his father and brother in mind, remembering that they trained on the same grounds he’s been training on.
“Whenever I feel like I am struggling or something is difficult, I remember that my dad and brother did the exact same thing. And if they can do it, so can I,” Casey said.
Casey’s father, Alvin Figueroa, has been in the Marine Corps for 30 years and is now a Chief Warrant Officer 5. Also a graduate from Parris Island, Alvin knew what was to come for his youngest son, and he knew the trials and tribulations that Casey would face. Before Casey left for Parris Island, Alvin left him with some words of advice.
“The number one thing I told him was, the drill instructors are supposed to yell,” said Alvin. “You can be doing everything perfectly fine, and they will still yell. However, I didn’t tell him that I knew some of his drill instructors, and that I knew his chief drill instructor.”
The service doesn’t end there. His mother, Raquel Figueroa, served eight years in the Air Force National Guard, went on several deployments, and assisted in major operations such as Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Noble Eagle. She feels as though her family’s past and present military service has paid off.
“Here I am talking about now having two children who have a sense of service and duty, and are also answering the call to serve in the Marine Corps as well,” said Raquel. “I am very proud of that.”
Casey’s brother, also named Alvin, is a Marine who trained at Parris Island and now trains recruits at Recruit Depot San Diego. As a drill instructor, he has much more insight into what his little brother is going through. Being eight years apart, Casey’s older brother set the example for Casey, and his father set the standard.
“It’s cool because we all walked the same parade deck, continuing the family traditions, because it started with my father, then me, and now him,” said Alvin.
The Figueroa family represents more than their military affiliation; they represent pride in our nation, tradition, and legacy. Each of them has chosen to serve their country and carry on the legacy of the one before them.
📝 by Lance Cpl. Nicholas White
For more stories visit https://www.mcrdpi.marines.mil
