This year, the Young Marines celebrated their 52nd birthday and the Lewis & Clark Young Marines held their annual Young Marine Birthday Ball on October 21st at the Holiday Inn at the Airport in Portland, OR.
141 Young Marines, Staff, friends and family attended to celebrate a year of successes with food and dance.
Mr. Sean Langley, LCYM Executive Officer led the proceedings. The color guard presented the colors for the Pledge of Allegiance. The letter from Young Marine National Executive Director, Col Bill Davis, was read by our Adjutant, Kristine Lewis.
The POW/MIA and Missing Children tables were memorialized:
NARRATOR: As you entered the room, you should have noticed two tables set in a place of honor. They are each set for one yet there are many who sit in each chair. Please let me explain. The Young Marine way of life is filled with much symbolism. These two tables provide a way to remind us that members of the Young Marines whom we call brothers and sisters are not able to be with us this evening. The first table which I will address is draped in black symbolizing the color of mourning, the ultimate sacrifice, a table set in honor of our comrades who have died. The single lighted candle reminds us of the flame of eternal life and that the memory of our comrades is with us always. The identification tags are blank, yet they could bear the name of any of us here tonight. The dinner setting is inverted – they break bread with us in spirit.
MUSIC: Taps
NARRATOR: The second table set for one is small, symbolizing the frailty of one missing child, a prisoner alone against his oppressors. The tablecloth is white, symbolizing the purity of their intentions to return home. The single red rose reminds us of the families and loved ones of our missing children who keep the faith awaiting their return. The yellow ribbon tied so prominently to the vase is reminiscent of the ribbon worn on the lapel and breasts of thousands who bear witness to their determination to find our missing children. A slice of lemon is on the bread plate to remind us of their bitter fate. There is salt upon the plate, symbolic of their families’ tears as they wait. The glass is inverted – they cannot toast with us tonight. The chair is empty – they are not here. – At this time would you please join me in a moment of silence. –
The cake cutting ceremony was led by Unit Commander Devin Lewis and attended by last years YMOY SSgt J Morales, the oldest YM in our unit Cpl N Hoover and our youngest Young Marines Pvt M Chemarin and Pvt W Chemarin.
The Staff was recognized and each Young Marine present shook their hand and thanked them.
The 2017 Lewis & Clark Young Marine of the year was announced, congratulations to Sgt Logan Nelson. (read more HERE)
The 2017 Lewis & Clark Young Marine Volunteers of the Year were announced, congratulations to Brian and Missie Taylor. (read more HERE)
The 2017 Presidents Volunteer Service Awards were presented. (read more HERE)
- GySgt E. Brinton – 2 bronze stars
- SSgt J. Bambilla – 1 bronze star
- Cpl C. Chapa
- LCpl A. Chapa
After dinner, it was time for the Operation Southern Legacy (OSL) slide show, silent action, dancing and socializing. The DJ did a great job of getting everyone out on the dance floor and even the youngest enjoyed doing the Thriller and YMCA moves.
Thank you to Mrs. DeAnn King for coordinating the very enjoyable event.