1) He was the Most Valuable Player on his lacrosse team at West Islip High School. (Not a Participation Award)
2) In Basic Training, he was trained in use of the Choke Hold. (See page 2-41):
https://usmcofficer.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/Marine-Corps-Martial-Arts-Program-MCMAP.pdf
3) He became a Sergeant in USMC in 4 years. (Not a Participation Award)