Young Marines graduate

Back row l-r: Gerry Walker, MAYM training officer; James Newell, MAYM advisor; Pvt. Denegal; Pvt. Linzy; Pfc. Stapp; Pvt. Smith; Just Pettus, MAYM Unit Commander; Pvt. McCray; Pvt. Jackson; Amy DeLaRosa, MAYM female advisor; Pvt. Denegal; Jennifer Rosso, MAYM paymaster Front row l-r: Pvt. Cipollari; Pvt. Sanchez; Pvt. Leverett; Pvt. Perry; Not pictured Pvt. Anderson (Contributed)

The Madison Young Marines now have 12 new members.

The group inducted new members June 3 at a special graduation ceremony held at the Madison Senior Center.

“We’re very proud of these recruits as well as the present Young Marines, and we’re looking forward to a very exciting year,” said Unit Commander Judy Pettus.

The new members went though boot camp for four Saturdays, six hours a day, which consisted of 26 hours of classes including drug reduction, physical fitness and health. The group also learned general subjects such as history, customs and courtesies and close order drills. Boot camp wrapped up June 2.

After graduating from Young Marines boot camp, the youth have the opportunity to learn more new skills, earn rank, wear the Young Marines 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

“We are very proud of our girls and guys and know they will serve the Young Marines well,” Pettus said.

For more information, email Madisonyoungmarines@yahoo.com