|
Who the Young Marines are.
- The Young Marines is the official youth program of the Marine Corps League.
Founded in 1958 to promote the mental, moral and physical development of young Americans, the Young Marines offer a variety
of activities specifically designed to develop greater self-esteem, discipline and self-confidence in its members.
- Character building is the cornerstone of the Young Marine program, and all of its
activities emphasizing the importance of honesty, courage, respect, loyalty, dependability, and a sense of devotion to God,
country, community, and family.
- Physical Fitness, a healthy lifestyle, and respect for one's body are important
tenets of the Young Marines. The Young Marines are committed to prevent obesity and encourage a strong, healthy community.
- Being the official Drug Demand Reduction program of the US Marine Corps, Young Marines
make a pledge to maintain a drug free lifestyle and are encouraged to influence family, friends, and schoolmates to share
this commitment. Drug education and prevention classes are an integral part of the Young Marine education and training
program. These classes are frequently conducted by qualified Law Enforcement officers within the community.
What we do.
Once a recruit has joined they will start their mandatory 26 hour recruit training. Training
will be held at the units regulary bi-weekly meetings for 4 hours each meeting. A mandatory weekend "Field Exercise"
is also included as a unit requirement. Prior to graduating the recruit must not miss more than 3 meetings, they must pass
a written test, and take a Physical Fitness Test. All recruits are required to turn in weekly progress reports from
their parents and teachers.
After graduating the Recruit becomes a Young Marine and joins the unit. They are assigned
to a squad within the platoon. They will then be able to participate within the unit functions as a full fledged member.
They will be able to attend encampments, and they are now eligible for promotions. Most of the activities that they
will participate in are geared towards earning them ribbons and recognition. They must complete 50 hours of community
service each year, and they will take quarterly classes on Drug Awareness & Prevention.
The higher in rank they get, the more responsibility they will get. Promotions are not guaranteed,
they must be earned. Each Young Marine must be recommended for the higher position, after completing testing and
interviewing for the position.
|