Hernando “Nando” Holdsworth

Hernando “Nando” Holdsworth, a freshman at Pinecrest Academy and a member of the Metro Atlanta Young Marines, received the “Toughest Recruit” medallion for his effort and attitude during a week at the Marine Corps Training Facility at Parris Island, South Carolina, July 15-19.

Holdsworth achieved the highest performance in three obstacle course challenges the Marines call “the crucible.” Other Young Marines from South Carolina, North Carolina and Georgia were competing to receive the medal.

In addition to winning “the crucible,” Holdsworth also won for best attitude, in the face of the many hours of marching and physical training demanded during the week.

As an adult, he hopes to enroll in a college ROTC program and become a U.S. Marine Corps officer.

The Young Marines is a youth education and service program for boys and girls, ages 8 through completion of high school. The organization promotes the mental, moral and physical development of its members, according to its website.