Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 16 Page 17 Page 18 Page 19 Page 20 Page 21 Page 22 Page 23 Page 24 Page 25 Page 26 Page 27 Page 28 Page 29 Page 30 Page 31 Page 32 Page 33 Page 34 Page 35 Page 36 Page 37 Page 38 Page 39 Page 40 Page 41 Page 42 Page 43 Page 44 Page 45 Page 46 Page 47 Page 48 Page 49 Page 50 Page 51 Page 52 Page 53 Page 542 YOUNG MARINES ESPRIT ONLINE • From our National Executive Director Follow us on Facebook www.facebook.com/usyoungmarines and our national homepage www.youngmarines.com Welcome to 2017! I don’t generally make New Year’s resolutions, I believe that one should seek to do their best at all times and that posi- tive change and growth should be strived for on a daily basis. But if I had to make a goal, I would say that it would be to continue to build on the phenomenal work that we have accom- plished together in the past year alone. Our Drug Demand Reduction pillar is a stel- lar example of new ideas, participation, and great recognition for our program. Our Young Marines have taken this mission to heart, and I am inspired to say that, since its inception, Young Marines across our program are wearing their red cords. This symbol is a proud declara- tion of an individual commitment as well as an announcement to others that we remain committed to a healthy, drug-free lifestyle. We experienced our highest unit participation in memory for Red Ribbon Week, strengthened partnerships with the Drug Enforcement Ad- ministration (DEA), and renewed our ties with Community Anti Drug Coalitions of America (CADCA). Our work was rewarded when the East Valley Young Marines earned the Fulcrum Shield award. This recognition from the De- partment of Defense represents an 8th award for the Young Marines program. The volunteer efforts of our Young Marines continues to demonstrate our steadfast com- mitment to our country, communities, and veter- ans. Our units contributed more than 600,000 hours in 2016, and I know that their dedication to others will continue to rise. The giving of oneself is one of the most noble acts that one person can give another. You serve this pro- gram well Young Marines, and your efforts are truly appreciated. It was inspiring for me to review the par- ticipation statistics of our Young Marines and Adult Volunteers for 2016. More than half of you chose to attend a Regional or National event. Whether it was a Division Encampment, a SPACES event, Leadership Academy, or one of the other exciting opportunities, you opted to hone your skills and learn from one another. Of special note was the overwhelming support provided for the 75th anniversary commemora- tion of Pearl Harbor. So join me in celebrating our successes as well as a recommitment to our core values of Leadership, Discipline, and Teamwork. In all things, continue to encourage and support each other, challenge yourselves, and be the positive difference that makes our program the best youth organization in our Nation. I can’t wait to see what amazing things we accomplish together this year! Semper Fi and Happy New Year Young Marines! Col Bill Davis, USMC (Ret) National Executive Director, Young Marines Starting the climb to the top of the crater at Marine Corps Base Hawaii with our motivated Young Marines. Above: Taking a water break in the shade with our Young Marines at Navajo Code Talker Day.