Cleveland native Lonnie Joe Mizell II will graduate from Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego on Friday, Nov. 13, marking the completion of his military training and the beginning of his service as a United States Marine.
Mizell, who attended both Tarkington ISD and Cleveland ISD, is a member of Platoon 3215, which earned the distinction of Honor Platoon during recruit training. He also will receive a meritorious promotion to private first class during the graduation ceremony in recognition of his accomplishments.
According to his mother, Randi Renee Hollifield, Mizell has always been active, outgoing and determined to do his best, whether in school, extracurricular activities or other pursuits.
She said those qualities helped him succeed during the challenges of Marine Corps recruit training, which requires physical endurance, mental toughness and discipline.
For his family, watching Mizell reach this milestone has been a source of tremendous pride.
Mizell is the son of Randi Renee Hollifield and Duane Willie Mizell. He also was raised by his stepfather, Kenneth Hollifield, and stepmother, Johanna Mizell.
His family hopes his accomplishment will be celebrated by the Cleveland community where he grew up.
“We are incredibly proud of Lonnie, not only for becoming a United States Marine, but for the dedication, discipline, perseverance, and character it took to get there,” Hollifield said.
Following graduation, Mizell will continue his military training as he begins the next chapter of his Marine Corps career.
Thank you so much! We are so very proud of our Marine! PRIVATE FIRST CLASS MIZELL, YOU DID IT SON.