On 20-21 May the MDESGR hosted 35 employers, ESGR members and Marine Reservists on a "Boss Lift" to the Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island, SC.

On Thursday morning following an MD Air Guard unit mission briefing, the group was airlifted by C-130J aircraft from the 135th Airlift Group, 175th Wing, MD Air National Guard. Upon arrival they were greeted by a Marine Drill Instructor and placed on the 'Yellow Footprints' as if they were new recruits. After the traditional recruit welcome, they were briefed by the training staff and given a bus tour of the facilities. In the evening they attended a banquet at Traditions Restaurant and were briefed on the Marine Corps Reserve mission by Major Salisbury, Deputy I&I, Headquarters, 4th Combat Engineers Battalion. On Friday, the group was shown various Marine training including the final recruit exercise titled "The Crucible." 

At the Crucible site, the group was honored by a surprise visit from Congressional Medal of Honor recipient Major General James E. Livingston, USMC, Retired. General Livingston thanked the employers for supporting their employees that continue to serve in the Marine Reserves.  The trip culminated with all employers signing a Statement of Support upon their return to Maryland.