Last week, Cade and his family traveled to San Diego and spent a few days at the home of the United States Marine Corps.  When he arrived at the Shreveport Regional airport the morning of his wish, Make-A-Wish and soldiers from Company B of the 4^th Marine Division, 23^rd Marine Regiment, 1^st Battalion, based in Bossier City, surprised Cade with an official “boot camp” send-off before he boarded the plane.  In front of his family, Cade took the Oath of Enlistment with Major Lucas Culver!

Cade’s family has a long history of military service, including his mother’s cousin, who served in Vietnam, and his uncle, a Marine veteran.  Because of this, Cade has wanted to be a Marine “since before [he] was 5.” Cade chose this as his wish because his medical condition will prevent him from enlisting when he is older.

When he touched down in San Diego, Cade observed a cadet graduation ceremony at the Marine Corps Recruit Depot, met “Bruno,” the base’s English Bulldog mascot, and had lunch with cadets in the mess hall, among several other activities.  Then, he visited Camp Pendleton and observed Weapons Field Training and participated in the weapons training simulator. Reflecting on his wish, Cade’s mom said, “I don’t know if I have ever seen him so happy! I am still completely blown away by the whole experience. Thank you just isn’t enough.”

From us to Cade: “Semper Fi, Marine!”

Check out the amazing media coverage from Cade’s wish below!  ​​​​​​​

KSLA (CBS 12)

KTBS (ABC 3)

KTAL (NBC 6/FOX)

Shreveport Times

Shreveport-Bossier City Advocate