Welcome to the Young Marines
MCAS Tustin
About MCAS Tustin Young Marines
Our Mission: Building Tomorrow's Leaders, Today.
At MCAS Tustin Young Marines, we're dedicated to empowering young boys and girls (ages 8 through high school graduation) in Southern California to become responsible, confident, and drug-free leaders. We address the critical need for positive youth development by instilling core values such as leadership, teamwork, and self-discipline while fostering a strong foundation for success in all aspects of life.
What We Do: More Than Just a Program, It's a Transformation.
We're proud to be part of the nationally acclaimed Young Marines program, an award-winning organization that shapes young lives through a comprehensive approach:
Character Development: We focus on building character, promoting good citizenship, and encouraging active community service.
Leadership Training: Our program equips youth with essential leadership skills, fostering self-confidence and the ability to inspire others.
Academic Excellence: We emphasize the importance of academic achievement and provide resources to help our members succeed in school.
Veteran Appreciation: We deeply respect our nation's veterans, honoring their service and sacrifice through dedicated activities.
Community Service: At MCAS Tustin Young Marines, community service is central to our mission. Our dedicated team actively engages in various initiatives aimed at benefiting the local community. We assist local civic and government offices with community engagement events, provide color guard services, march in parades, participate in drug reduction events, and offer educational support and mentorship programs. Our volunteers work diligently to foster connections, promote sustainability, and uplift those in need. Join us in our commitment to service and witness how we are making a difference, one project at a time.
Drug-Free Lifestyle: We focus on reducing drug demand by educating members about the risks of drug use and encouraging healthy decisions. This includes participating in Red Ribbon Week and supporting the Red Cord Initiative.
Recruit Training: Upon joining a local Young Marine unit, youth undergo a 26-hour orientation program, generally spread out over several weekly meetings. This orientation is called Basic Recruit Training (BRT). The youth learn general subjects such as history, customs and courtesies, close order drill, physical fitness, and military rank structure. After graduating from Young Marine Recruit Training, the youth have the opportunity to learn even more 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, and drug resistance education.
Our Story: From Humble Beginnings to Lasting Impact.
The Young Marines began in 1959, when a group of former Marines in Connecticut sought to instill Marine Corps values in young boys. From a single unit, the organization has grown to over 200 units worldwide with over 5,000 youth participants.
MCAS Tustin Young Marines carries on that legacy, impacting the lives of youth in our community. We equip our Young Marines with the skills and values they need to become productive and responsible citizens.
Join Us!
We're open to all youth ages 8 through the completion of high school who are in good standing at school. If you're looking for a program that will challenge you, support you, and empower you to become your best self, we invite you to learn more about MCAS Tustin Young Marines.