WHAT DOES IT TAKE TO JOIN?

Our membership application forms are found on this page.  There are a few forms you fill out with information for both our unit and the national organization.  Then initial dues are $50.00 - renewals each subsequent year are $30.00, due each August.  Upon registration, each Young Marine will receive a camouflage cover (hat), a web belt, blousing bands, two pocket cards with basic Young Marine information, a Young Marines Guidebook in a three-ring notebook, one set of unit PT gear (shorts and a tee-shirt with unit logos) and a red Young Marines tee-shirt.

Initially, you will need to purchase a camouflage shirt and trousers, and a pair of jungle boots.  For more information on where to find these, click here.  Throughout the year, there are various activities we will attend:  parades, patriotic events, camping, field meets, drill competitions, fun outings.  Some have no cost associated, but others may have an expense to be paid by each Young Marine and adult attending.  Some are as little as a few dollars, while activites taking several days or week-long encampments may cost significantly more.   Our unit continues to increase in size and we continue to find more opportunities to provide your Young Marine with an exciting and adventurous experience.  We will always try to minimize your expense in these adventures so that your Young Marine will receive the benefit of these experiences. 

WHAT ARE MY TIME COMMITMENTS?

Ensure your child attends the meetings.  Each recruit is required to complete a course of instruction that we affectionately call "boot camp."  The information taught is crucial to forming a solid foundation in this program, so we ask that you make every effort to ensure your recruit is in attendance at these meetings. After boot camp, we have regular meetings where your Young Marine will continue to learn more about the Young Marines and become eligible for advancement, developing into leadership positions with the Marines there to coach them along.  Your Young Marine will receive the maximum benefit by attending on a regular basis, so we appreciate your support. 

Special Events.  The Young Marine program supports patriotic events.  We will march in parades and participate in ceremonies in conjunction with some holidays.  We ask that you make your Young Marine available to these events.  Their participation in events within the community, being an active citizen, is a part of what they learn in this program. 

Parent Support Group. We have a great parent support group where parents are consulted about upcoming events and ideas for activities for your child and the group.  Share your ideas and your concerns. Your participation is not mandatory, but it is encouraged. 

Support at home.  Your recruit will have subjects to study between meetings, whether it is about military courtesy, rank structure, or other topics.  Recruits also have memory work: the Young Marine Creed and Obligation, the Young Marine Hymn and the National Anthem.  All take a little study time.  After graduation, the Young Marines still study and work for their next promotion.  We ask for your support at home in helping your Young Marine to stand proudly and confidently when asked to recall or recite this knowledge.