Young Marines Sets Youth Up For Success
(January 16, 2011) |
|
|
| MARINE CORPS AIR STATION MIRIMAR, Calif. - Whether through
peer pressure, difficulty communicating with parents or
trouble in school, children face many challenges that can
greatly affect their future. However, there are programs in
place to guide today's youth in the right direction. |
Sgt. Louis Abrams, an instructor with the Miramar Young Marines Program, tutors a Young Marine during a lesson plan over interior guard procedures at the Motorcycle Safety Course building at Marine Corps Air Station Mirimar, Calif., Jan. 9. After the lesson, Young Marines were given a class on the importance of education and a drug-free lifestyle.
|
|
The Young
Marines is the Marine Corps' flagship Youth Drug
Demand Reduction Program, for children ages eight to
the completion of high school, dedicated to the
development of strong moral character and physical
fitness in its members. Marines, parents and
community members volunteer their time and knowledge
to the well being of young adults.
“We're
here on our off time making our community better,”
said Lance Cpl. Michael Arrar, an instructor with
the program. “A lot of these kids sometimes have
behavioral problems and their parents bring them
here as a last resort.”
Every Saturday the
Young Marines practice close order drill; learn
military rank structures, customs and courtesies and
to address adults as sir or ma'am and other members
by rank and last name. Young |
| Marines also
participate in field meets with team building
competitions such as tug-of-war and potato sack
races. |
|
“It's structured a lot like the Marine Corps but with a lot
less rigor,” said Sgt. David Street, an instructor with the
program. “It's an awesome opportunity to work with America's
fine youth.”
The instructors also take a personal
interest in the Young Marines outside of the program.
“If I'm having trouble or need help in school, I can
bring my homework in and get help with it,” said Young
Marine Lance Cpl. Frank McMullen, the guide for the Miramar
Young Marines.
Young Marines can excel in the program
by earning ribbons for accomplishments, ranging from
volunteer service to marksmanship and land navigation.
Members who do excel are considered for promotions and are
given the opportunity to lead their peers.
“The
program helps the kids with self-control and discipline,”
said Linda McMullen, a Young Marine parent and the paymaster
for the program. “It gives the kids a lot of positive
reinforcement by earning ribbons, increasing rank, and
learning leadership. It helps them grow up and be successful
members of society.” |
Article and photo by USMC Pfc. Ryan Carpenter
Marine Corps Air Station Miramar
Copyright 2011 | |
Provided
through DVIDS
Comment on this article |
|
