The Young Marines are a youth education and service program for boys and girls, ages 8 through completion of high school. The Young Marines promotes the mental, moral, and physical development of its members. The program focuses on character building, leadership, and promotes a healthy, drug-free lifestyle. The Young Marines is the focal point for the U.S. Marine Corps Youth Drug Demand Reduction efforts.

The Young Marines are open to all youth ages 8 through completion of high school. The only membership requirement is that the youth must be in good standing at school.

Young Marine units are community based programs lead by dedicated adult volunteers. Many of these volunteers are former, retired, active duty, or reserve Marines who believe passionately that the values they learned as Marines had a positive affect on them. It is through these caring adults that Young Marines learn the inner values of Honor, Courage, and Commitment.

Upon joining the Young Marine unit, youth undergo a 26 hour orientation program affectionately called "Boot Camp" After graduation, Young Marines learn new skills, earn rank, wear the Young Marine uniform and work toward ribbon awards. Young marines earn ribbons for achievement in areas such as leadership, community service, swimming, academic excellence, first aid, CPR, and drug resistance education.

During the summer months, Young Marines have the opportunity to attend the Young Marines National Summer Programs of: Adventures, Challenges, Encampments, and Schools.

Please do not misunderstand our intentions. It is not our goal to mold your children into Marines. We do not teach weapons, warfare or tactics. But we do wear the Eagle, Globe, and Anchor on our cover and our uniforms are similar to the United States Marines. We take pride in our appearance and conduct. The Young Marine program is not a summer camp, day care or military school. It is a challenging, exciting and motivating program that requires commitment to excellence.

Where we meet:
Marine Wing Support Group 47
Building 1435 
Selfridge Air National Guard Base
Mt.Clemens, MI 48045-5007

When we meet:
Every Wednesday 1830 (6:30 PM) to 2030 (8:30 PM)

For more information
Call (586) 949-9678 or email szyme04@att.net