Local Youth Carry Lead Banner In National Memorial Day Parade In D.C.

Since 2014 youth members of the Young Marines of the Palm Beaches from West Palm Beach, have been carrying the lead banner for the National Memorial Day Parade in Washington D.C. This year, Naples Young Marines joined Palm Beaches for this honor.

Naples Young Marines brought three youth members, and Young Marines of the Palm Beaches brought seven youth members on the trip. Young Marines of the Palm Beaches held monthly fundraisers all last year to pay for trips, encampments, training, schools, and gear.

Nine years ago, one youth member of the Young Marines of the Palm Beaches was asked to fill-in as one of the World War I Doughboys in the parade. The following year, the entire unit traveled to Washington D.C. to participate.

“The following year in 2015, we were able to secure the honorable position of the lead banner carriers, Doughboys, and other banners,” said Cindy N. Townsend, unit commander of Young Marines of the Palm Beaches. “The unit has continued that tradition ever since.”

“We love our country, and it is our responsibility to honor those who served,” Unit Commander Townsend said. “This trip is near and dear to our hearts. Each year, while in Washington D.C., our youth get an education on our government, our nation, and our military history. They have some fun, too.”

About the Young Marines

The Young Marines is a national non-profit 501(c)(3) youth education and service program for boys and girls, age eight through high school graduation. The Young Marines promotes the mental, moral, and physical development of its members. The program focuses on teaching the values of leadership, teamwork, and self-discipline, so its members can live and promote a healthy, drug-free lifestyle.

Since the Young Marines' humble beginnings in 1959 with one unit and a handful of boys, the organization has grown to over 238 units with 6,100 youth and 2,100 adult volunteers in 40 states, the District of Columbia, Japan, and affiliates in a host of other countries.

For more information, visit the official website at: https://youngmarines.org.