The Young Marines is a youth education and service program for boys and girls, ages 8 through completion of high school. The Young Marines promotes the mental, moral, and physical development of its members. The program focuses on character building, leadership, and promotes a healthy, drug-free lifestyle. The Young Marines is the focal point for the U.S. Marine Corps' Youth Drug Demand Reduction efforts. the running for National Unit of the Year.
The Young Marines of Pensacola was established on 15 June 2007. The Unit was started by MSgt Mike Holcomb, GySgt Pete Belanger, Tammy Holcomb and Shirley Belanger in June 2007. September 1st we graduated our first boot camp. Since it was founded, the unit has accounted for over 10,000 community service hours, given out over 500 Young Marine awards and been the recipient of numerous letters of appreciation from local communities, and two Marine Corps League commendations. The Young Marines of Pensacola have been involved with many different organizations like Toys For Tots, Wreaths Across America, and Veterans of Foreign Wars, just to name a few. the running for National Unit of the Year.
In February 2009, Capt. Kenneth Morrow became the Commanding Officer. The Young Marines of Pensacola have been the 1st Florida Regiment's Unit of the Year two years running, 2009 and 2010. We are also the Division 3 Unit of the Year and in the running for National Unit of the Year.
In May 2011, GySgt Pete Belanger became the Unit Commander.