PARRIS ISLAND, S.C. Dalton Beals wasn't just fighting to complete the two-day Crucible training at the U.S. Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island. The recruit, who joined the Marines because it was the toughest military branch, was fighting for his life.
He was beginning to slump, teetering at times, and he was breathing heavier than most of the others.
It was over 90 degrees. Another recruit offered to pour water on him. Beals responded: "It wouldn't help."