We Salute You
By Cynthia Coons
Veterans Columnist
Corporal Michael Tull is a United States Marine Corp veteran. Just typing these words gives me great pride, as I’ve known this man for many years.
I have been working as a bartender with Michael’s mother Holly for nearly a decade at Cousin Mario’s Restaurant in Mays Landing. I’ve heard more stories than I can even remember about Holly’s children, both of her sons serving in the Marine Corps and her daughter as a boat Captain in Florida. I am proudly writing this column about Michael. I have had the honor to work with him at Cousin Mario’s during the past year, and sadly I have to say goodbye and wish him the best of luck in his next endeavor. Michael is moving on to bigger and better opportunities, as he certainly deserves to do!
Corporal Michael Tull served in the USMC from September 2012, enrolling at the age of 18 because “it was my duty to serve,” until September 2016 when he was honorably discharged upon completion of his military contract. In his time with the Marine Corps, he was deployed twice: the first combat mission brought him to Bahrain, Djibouti and Jordan, providing air support in Iraq. His second training operations deployment was served in Japan and South Korea. He was utilized as an Air Frames Mechanic, working on structures and hydraulics in aircraft. His unit consisted of anywhere between 150-200 servicemen and women. He served ‘as was his duty’ to his country, but the opportunities he had while in service were a “bonus”. Michael’s housing was paid for and his education was provided as one of the opportunities available as a USMC veteran.
After Corporal Tull’s first deployment was completed, he spent time living in California. I asked him what he did when he first got there, and he immediately responded, “I ate a cheeseburger at In and Out Burger!” There really is something to be said for America… we do have the best food!”
After his second deployment was complete, Michael had one month to prepare to leave his military housing. His contract was now complete with the Marine Corps, and it was time to come home to New Jersey. He came home in January of 2017. His leadership skills and the bond he created with his military family have now provided yet another opportunity- he has been hired by the car company Tesla as an equipment maintenance technician, working on robots that build cars- all due to his skills learned as a Marine. He will be relocating to Freemont, California, all moving expenses paid for, including temporary housing as well as full benefits. Michael will be rejoining one of his buddies that served with him during his first deployment while working at Tesla.
I asked Michael what stood out about his time serving in the USMC. He thought about it for a moment, and choosing his words carefully yet purposefully, he explained about the worldly experience you come home with. You are learning cultures in Third World Countries, and gaining a greater appreciation for our country. He heard stories and learned about the backgrounds of other Marines he served with, the difference in their upbringing and challenges their families faced, but yet as a United States Marine, the opportunity gained and the end result can surprisingly be the same.
Michael left me with a final, beautiful phrase at the end of our conversation. I was hesitant to ask about his thoughts on what is happening with society, from the football controversy to the protests during the Thanksgiving parade. He reminded me that the military allows us the opportunity to stand, kneel or protest. He is proud that he is a part of that freedom, and very gently reminded me, “This is how America works.”
We Salute You, Corporal Michael Tull.
