All youth, ages 8 through high school, are invited to join the Cherry Point Young Marine program. Meetings are held at the Reserve Support Unit (RSU) building 4109 aboard the MCAS Cherry Point every Friday from 1730-2030, with occasional activities on Saturdays.  Click here for a map to our location.

Upon joining a local Young Marine unit, the youth go through an orientation program called “Boot Camp.” This orientation program is spread out over several weekly meetings. The youth learn the general Young Marine subjects such as history, close order drill, physical fitness, customs and courtesies, and military rank structure.

After graduating from "Boot Camp", the 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 National Headquarters. Young Marines also receive instruction on life skills, such as CPR, First Aid, swimming, etiquette, communications, and land navigation. Other activities include hiking, camping, obstacle courses, rappelling, scuba diving, and leadership training. They also participate in the local parades and community events to promote public service.