Who is eligible to join the Young Marines?
Any child, age 8 to 18 is eligible to participate in the Young Marine's program.
How do I join the Young Marines?
Several times throughout the year, boot camp is held for new enlistees. Check the Information page or email the webmaster for the next scheduled boot camp. New enlistees must sign an enlistment form and pass a physical.
What does it cost to join the Cherry Point Young Marines?
The initial registration fee is $50.00 per child. This fee covers the cost of one set of cammies with cover, web belt with buckle, and red Young Marines T-shirt. The only additional cost to parents is the purchase of combat style black jungle boots and red shorts for physical training (PT). (prices subject to change, please call for current policy)
Where do the Cherry Point Young Marines have their meetings?
The Cherry Point Young Marines Headquarters (HQ) is in building 4109 aboard the air station. In fair weather, musters are conducted in the field adjacent to HQ. During inclement weather, we have access to other buildings belonging to the Reserve Support Unit (RSU). To see a map to our HQ from the main gate, click HERE.
I am a civilian, how do I get on the base?
If you do not have a Department of Defence sticker on your vehicle, you will be required to stop at the "pass and ID" office in the building next to the Cherry Point Main Gate and get a temporary pass. To be given a temporary pass, you must provide proof of insurance, registration and a valid drivers license.
What uniforms are Young Marines allowed to wear?
Young Marines are authorized to wear any green service or camouflage (cammies) uniform that U.S. Marines wear. Blue Dress uniforms are not authorized for wear by Young Marines.
How are Young Marines distinguished from US Marines when in uniform?
Young Marines wear white undershirts with their cammies, in addition to the shoulder and breast patches sewn onto the uniform. When in service (dress) uniforms, plastic or metal rank insignia (chevrons) are worn on the collar points, not sewn onto the sleeves.
Where do I get uniforms for my Young Marine?
Uniform cost is covered by the initial registration fee. Additional uniform items can be purchased from cash sales on base, or from any military surplus store that carries USMC uniform items. ET's military surplus in Havelock, or Saigon Sams in Jacksonville can provide just about anything you may need to outfit your Young Marine.
Can my Young Marine wear his/her uniform any time he/she wishes?
Normally, uniforms should only be worn during scheduled drills and special events. Exceptions to this rule are when participating in a fund raiser selling candy or other items door to door. Uniforms can only be worn to school if getting school portraits done. Wearing of the uniform to other locations should be kept at a minimum, and it should always be squared away with clean ribbons and shined boots.
What do the Young Marines wear to do Physical Training (PT)?
During boot camp, blue jeans, white T-shirt and running shoes is the prescribed uniform. After graduation, Young Marines are required to have red shorts, the red Young Marines T-shirt, white socks and running shoes. Cold weather PT gear is gray sweatpants and gray sweatshirt. Gloves and stocking cap are optional in cold weather, but recommended when warranted.
What can my Young Marine wear during cold weather?
During colder weather, a gray sweatshirt should be worn under the cammie blouse. If the weather is very cold, any jacket, gloves and hat can be worn over the uniform. As a general rule, dress appropriately for the weather. Regulations do not prohibit wearing of coats with the uniform.
What can my Young Marines do to earn community service credit?
Community service is anything that your Young Marine participates in that is non-profit, and serves the community or a needy individual. Helping an elderly or handicapped person with yard work or household chores; serving as acolyte, crucifer, ushers or other functions at a church service; volunteering to clean schools or other public buildings and grounds; participation in a community event such as a parade or Toys For Tots; all constitute community service and qualifies for credit towards the community service ribbon. Collecting aluminum cans for recycling also earns credit for community service. See the new information page for more on aluminum recycling.
What do Young Marines do during weekly drills?
Scan the training schedule and the new information page to see what events the young marines participate in.
Who can I contact for more information about the Cherry Point Young Marines?
The Windsock, Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point's base newspaper has names and phone numbers of staff members for the Cherry Point Young Marines. Look under the "Community Calendar" in the "Off Duty" section of the paper, or click here and send an e-mail to our mailbox.
I want to be an adult volunteer, how can I participate?
Adults must fill out an application and provide character references to become a staff member. There are several positions available, from paperwork shuffling to direct supervision of the Youth. If you are interested in becoming an adult leader of Young Marines, or just want to help the staff with paperwork or the phone tree, contact the webmaster from the link below.
Have a suggestion for a question? Send it to the webmaster.
