The Razorback unit of the Young Marines usually meets in Conway, AR at Advent Lutheran Church. Drills are held roughly every other Saturday. To join just fill out the forms, and contact the X.O. or C.O. at the numbers listed at the bottom of the page.You may call or e-mail the XO or CO for any questions you may have. Please look at our video and photo section of this website to see the latest events.
Parent Information:
Q: Who can join the Young Marines?
A: The Young Marines is for boys and girls ages 8 through completion of high school. The only enrollment requirement is that the youth must be in good standing at school.
Q: How do I join the Young Marines?
A: First, find out if the Razorback unit is the closest to you. You can find the unit nearest to you by visiting the unit locator on the national site. If this is not the unit closest to you, you can contact the unit closest to you, or come to the Razorback Young Marines unit anyway. To begin, print the forms and contact the CO or XO at the bottom of your screen.
Q: What is Young Marines Boot Camp?
A: Upon joining the unit, the youth undergo an orientation program, either spread out over several weekly meetings, or one 3-5 day camp in the summer. This orientation program is affectionately called "Boot Camp." The youth learn the general Young Marine subjects such as history, close order drill, physical fitness, customs and courtesies, and military rank structure. The youths do NOT attend a "military-style" resident program. The program is NOT a summer camp, or a boot camp to "straighten up" unruly kids.
Q: What happens after Young Marines Boot Camp?
A: Through scheduled drills following "boot camp", the recruits prepare for Graduation. They will learn and take the Young Marine oaths: Obligation ,Creed and Honor Code. The recruit will be issued a Young Marine Uniform, and will learn how to care for it. Upon Graduation, the recruit will officially become a Young Marine and may wear the Young Marine Uniform. THE YOUNG MARINE UNIFORM REMAINS THE PROPERTY OF THE RAZORBACK YOUNG MARINE UNIT. After Graduation, Young Marines continue the character building process and begin a life-long pursuit as productive and contributing citizens in their community. During the summer months, Young Marines have the opportunity to attend Summer Programs of Adventures, Challenges, Encampments, and Schools (SPACES) offered by the Young Marines National Headquarters. www.youngmarines.com . On average, the Razorback unit meets once every other week year round.
Q: How much does it cost to join the Young Marines?
A: The Razorback unit registration fee is $150, with $100 being paid before boot camp and the remaining $50 being due within 90 days. The annual renewal fee is $20. Scolarships givin on an "as need" basis. It is our feeling that your child can become a Young Marine regardless of your financial situation. All that we ask is that you contribute what your budget will allow. ALL REGISTRATION FEES AND RENEWAL FEES ARE UNCONDITIONALLY NON-REFUNDABLE.
Q: Do I have to join the military if I enroll in the Young Marines?
A: No! Our members have no commitment to serve in the United States Armed Forces as part of their membership in the Young Marines. Young Marine members enroll in the program, they do NOT enlist. The Young Marines is a youth education and service program, not a recruiting tool for the U.S. Armed Forces. While it's true that some of our former Young Marines DO choose to join the Armed Forces or attend military academies, the majority of our former Young Marines pursue their own career paths that most interest them.
A: All of the leaders are registered adults, and have had their background checked by the National Director in Washington, D.C. Currently, the C.O. (Commanding Officer) is Frankie Stovall, and the X.O. (Executive Officer) is Wes Camp.