CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. -- Local youth earned the title of Young Marines after several weekends of training in a ceremony held at the base theater here August 10.
The Eagle Young Marines is a drug demand reduction program that is sponsored by the Marine Corps League and open to boys and girls from ages 8 to 18. The program promotes academics, physical fitness and character development in its members through training and leadership activities.
“The recruit training and the Eagle Young Marines also help kids develop hope and confidence,” said Patti Siegmann, the executive officer for the Eagle Young Marines.
The Eagle Young Marines program graduated 13 youth members into its ranks on Saturday.
“The toughest thing in the world today is to gain good morals and good character,” said Dwayne Siegmann, the commanding officer of the Eagle Young Marines. “That is the most important thing that we continuously focus on in the Eagle Young Marine program.”
The program is designed to help develop these young kids to become productive members of the community Dwayne continued.
The guest speaker of the graduation and supporter of the program was Oceanside Mayor, Jim Wood.
“This is an education, what you’re doing out there in person. This makes you a better person,” said Wood. “[Young Marines] certainly makes you a better citizen.”
The program shares similarities with the Marine Corps. It allows youth to progress through ranks and grow in their abilities, said Patti.
“This program is terrific because it gives kids a wonderful opportunity to learn, grow and serve their community,” said Patti.
For more information visit: EagleYoungMarines.org
Or call: Mrs. Patti Siegmann at 760-213-5070
Contact Lance Cpl. Orrin Farmer at orrin.farmer@usmc.mil