Staff Comments

I have been fortunate to be a part of the Young Marine Program in Columbus since it was formed a few years ago. It has been a tremendous experience and one which I will cherish the rest of my life. It brings great pleasure to see young boys and girls transform themselves into young men and women that will someday be the leaders of our country. The values I learned in the Marine Corps 35 years ago still influence me to this day and as an adult leader I hope to instill these same values in our Young Marines. The program promotes discipline, integrity, fitness and commitment. It teaches our young
people how to recognize these values, perfect them, and to use them
everyday. It stresses the importance of a drug free lifestyle and teaches them how to accomplish this goal. It teaches them self-esteem and how to be a member of a team. It basically teaches our young people how to be responsible adults who will someday be the people that will lead our country, our community, and their own families in the best way possible. It isn't an easy program. We expect a lot from these young people. We push them very hard but the rewards are great. To watch these Young Marines accomplish
so many things brings great pleasure as an adult leader. With so much negative press about young people in this country, it's great to be able to show the community the positive involvement our Young Marines have locally as well as nationally. I take great pride in our Young Marines and I am proud to be a part of their lives. I know these Young Marines have influenced me more than they will ever know. I hope that I have done the same to them. God bless America and our Young Marines.