A recent Highline High School graduate and former Burien Police Explorer has earned multiple honors after completing Marine Corps recruit training in California.

Gionni V. Ortiz graduated Feb. 27, 2026 from Marine Corps Recruit Depot (MCRD) San Diego, receiving recognition as Platoon Honor Graduate and also the Marine Corps Association Physical Fitness Award as the Company Iron Man for Echo Company.

The Physical Fitness Award recognizes the most physically fit recruit in the company, according to the plaque presented by the Marine Corps Association.

Ortiz, a member of the Highline High School Class of 2025, previously spent four years in the Explorer program with the Burien Police Department beginning at age 14. During his first Explorer academy he received the Top Patrol Officer award.

In 2025 he was also named Explorer of the Year through the Burien and SeaTac King County Sheriff Explorer program.

He also played for Highline Pirates baseball, football and wrestling teams, adding to his many honors that included being named a Student of the Month by the Rotary Club of Burien/White Center in 2025.

His mother Elvia Kyle described him as “an amazing role model at the mere age of 19.”

The Marine Corps Association award presented to Ortiz states the recognition was given in acknowledgment of the most physically fit recruit in the company, while the Honor Graduate award recognizes high achievement and superior accomplishment during recruit training at the Marine Corps Recruit Depot.

Congratulations, Marine, and thank you for your service.