Parents or guardians must attend.
The Young Marines is a drug demand reduction program through the Department of Defense. The goal is to improve character, instill discipline and leadership, and inspire productive citizens. The program is also an official youth program of the United States Marine Corps.
The group has 40 members, and the goal is to recruit 25 or 30 more students.
“They can expect a very long period of life’s training,” public affairs officer Ray Girard said. “We have an expression ‘Young Marine training good for life’. I’ve been with the program for 11 years. As time goes on the most important benefit I see for them is confidence in their ability to handle the world.”
The Young Marines program was established 53 years ago nationally, and locally the program is in its 16th year.
The group meets Wednesdays at St. Peter Church for drills. Community service events are organized throughout the year as well.
“Parents are putting their children into a program that is really meaningful toward growing up,” Girard said. “Their particular responsibility is to participate with them, and support them during their journey.”
The group is also run by medical, administrative and training volunteers. About five volunteers are needed, and a military background is not required.
For more information, call Girard at 657-7813, e-mail raygirard@earthlink.net or visit youngmarines.com.
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