CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. --
The Devil Pups Youth Program for America will reach a significant milestone as they graduate their 50,000th member in a ceremony here, Saturday.
The program began in 1954 as a community benefit project that would aid the development of character qualities in teenage boys and girls, and enable them to become healthier and more successful young citizens.
Since July 5, participants of the two separate classes have encountered 10 days each of challenge, teamwork, discipline and education. Boys and girls between the ages of 14 and 17 learned cooperation and respect for the dignity of others, regardless of race, creed, color or national origin.
Activities included conditioning exercises, first aid instruction, leadership classes, organized recreation, a bivouac (camping out) and swimming. The program is not a “mini boot camp”, para-military or recruiting organization for the Marine Corps.
Media are invited to attend the graduation ceremony.
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******MEDIA COORDINATION INSTRUCTIONS******
Media interested in covering this event must call the Camp Pendleton Media Relations Office at (760) 725-5044 and must RSVP no later than noon Friday, June 27. Members of the media who have RSVP'd will meet at Camp Pendleton's SAN ONOFRE GATE at 11:30 a.m. on SATURDAY to be escorted to the event.
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