Young Marine History

Southland Young Marines

After World War II, members of the Marine Corps League discussed the possibility of establishing a Marine Corps League Youth Program as a civic project for detachments and to create interest in the League.  For historical purposes, the birth f the Young Marines was in Waterbury, Connecticut in 1958.  The official charter was issued on 17 October 1965 and thereafter the program spread throughout the country.  In 1975 membership was extended to females to participate so all youth could benefit.

In 1980 the IRS granted the Young Marines Non-Profit Status under 501(c)(3).

In July 1993 the United States Marine Corps designated the Young Marine Program as "the Focal organization for fulfilling its participation in the Department of Defense's Drug Demand Reduction Activities"  Marine Corps Order 5000.20 officially recognized the Young Marines and published policy to support the program.