Edmund Brookins, a member of the Cherry Point chapter of the Montford Point Marine Association, poses for a photo with Master Sgt. Johnnie Thompkins Jr., one of the first African Americans to enlist in the Marine Corps, during a ceremony commemorating the service of the first enlisted African American Marines, at the Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point Theater, Friday. Thompkins recalled enduring hardships and prejudices during his time in the service but said he did not let those obstacles stop him. He retired after serving more than 20 years in the Marines.