Three Bucks County sisters join Marine Corps

BUCKS COUNTY (WTXF) - A sense of duty runs strong in one local family. Three Bucks County sisters are all packing up and joining the Marine Corps. Each has her own reason but they have one common goal to serve our country.

FOX 29's Bill Anderson has the story.

As a country we generally celebrate those who serve in our military and recognize the sacrifices they make for the rest of us to feel safe.

"The honor, courage and commitment that comes along with the title United States Marine--something to be proud of."

There are some families that stand out even among those already committing their lives to service.

"Three or six so I don't have to worry where the three are going. I know they're going to be in good hands with the Marines and leave my home as young women and return as United States Marines and I'm proud," their mom said.

Nina, Keyeyelah, and Danielle Lear--Bucks County sisters--all between the ages of 18 and 21 and are heading out together later this month to begin what they call a higher purpose.

"We're going to Parris Island, South Carolina, we're going to be in boot camp for 13 weeks and then hopefully we'll earn the title of United States Marine. Hopefully, we'll all graduate together," one sister said.

In speaking to the young ladies, they all expressed different reasons for deciding to join the service together.

"I just wanted to contribute to the country, gain discipline, serve my country and help others. I was ready for a change of pace or a higher calling I guess."

But at the root of it they were driven to make a difference. The girls' mother and stepfather admit that sending three daughters off to serve in the military at the same time was initially a little uncomfortable.

"My immediate response was tears and why, but the youngest Nina, she's the one who spearheaded it," their mom said.

And after the 18-year-old was able to address their concerns the deeper sense of pride won out.

"I'm just really proud of them and looking forward to having my daughters stand up and being ones who will defend the United States," their mom explained.

And that commitment to helping others was ultimately one of the qualities that the girls' military recruiter told FOX 29 made them all stand out.

"It's an honor to eventually after boot camp serve with these three young women who are gonna turn into United States Marines at one point. They had everything the Marine Corps is looking for-- physically fit, strong and very smart," Sgt Hellyer said.