Joe's Early History

  • Leaving For Marine Corps Bootcamp in San Diego

    September 29, 2025

    I had signed the contract. I had taken the oath. Now my Fate was in the hands of Marine Corps drill instructors. They were ready for me. The big question: was I ready for Marine Corps Drill Instructors?

  • Joining the United States Marine Corps Reserve

    September 16, 2025

    As I left the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, I knew I had about an 800-mile drive to get me home to San Mareo, California. Given the time…



  • Northern Arizona

    September 2, 2025

    With the journey was just completing, I had some semblance of control. I could stop when I wanted. I could eat when I wanted. I could look at my map and chart my course. But during the trip I was about to begin in a matter of days, I was going to have a lot less control.

  • Detour to Santa Fe, New Mexico

    August 18, 2025

    My solo 1964 journey is nearing the end. Pretty cool for a 20 year old on his own. It has given me deeper appreciation for what the Greatest Generation did for us.

  • West to Arizona Highways

    August 4, 2025

    From Tampa I headed north to Tallahasse and the connection to the interstate heading west. The highway was flat and the traffic was light. I was…

  • South to Miami Beach, Florida

    July 21, 2025

    I drove west until I hit interstate 95 South, a big, major freeway. Flat for the most part, I could make good time. Traffic was light. Because…