Young Marines session begins

A meeting later this month for potential Young Marines recruits and their parents will take place at Camp Pendleton later this month.

The recruits and parents have the option of August 18 or August 25 for the mandatory meeting. Both meetings will be held at Building 14104 on the Camp Pendleton Mainside. The boot camp includes 14 days between September 8 and October 27, including three weekends with two overnight stays apiece as well as four eight-hour Saturday sessions and the four-hour graduation October 27.

The Young Marines program of the Marine Corps League is open to boys and girls between the ages of 8 and 17 who are interested in a well-rounded, year-round program with emphasis on the traditions and values of the United States Marine Corps. “We believe in teaching our youth the good merits and values that this country was founded on,” said Patti Estep, the executive officer of the Eagle Young Marines of Camp Pendleton.

The purpose of the Young Marines is to provide an organized program devoted to development of character and physical fitness in American youth. Emphasis is placed on honesty, courage, respect, loyalty, dependability, and a sense of devotion to God, country, community, and family. The Young Marines also offer classes on various subjects including land navigation, close-order drill, mountain survival, customs and courtesy, clothing care, physical fitness, sexual harassment, and Marine Corps history.

Approximately two dozen recruits are in a typical boot camp, which is conducted three times a year. “Once they graduate then they’re a Young Marine, but they’re just a recruit while they’re in training” Estep said.

The Young Marines program includes weekend encampments and a week-long encampment during summer.

Those interested in the Young Marines may contact Estep at (760) 213-5070 or [email protected].