Serving the Youth of SW Washington Since 2002

YM/SgtMaj Begines Recognized for Outstanding Achievements

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Congratulations to YM/SgtMaj Tristan Begines on his incredible accomplishment as Division 5 Young Marine of the Year! At just 17 years old, his journey has been one of perseverance, growth, and leadership. Once uncertain about his place in the program, he has since redefined expectations, proving that determination and dedication can break barriers. His inspiring story, recently featured in The Columbian, highlights his commitment to excellence and his efforts to challenge the narrative of autism. We are incredibly proud of his achievements—well done, YM/SgtMaj Begines!

Article: Vancouver teen, determined not be be defined by autism, named Division 5 Young Marine of the Year

YM/MSgt Begines Named Division 5 Young Marine of the Year!

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YM/MSgt Begines is named Division 5 Young Marine of the Year—an outstanding achievement!
YM/MSgt Begines is named Division 5 Young Marine of the Year—an outstanding achievement!

What an incredible way to start the new year! YM/MSgt Begines has been selected as the Division 5 Young Marine of the Year, a tremendous achievement that reflects his dedication, leadership, and hard work. We are beyond proud of his commitment to excellence and the impact he has made. Congratulations, YM/MSgt Begines—this is a well-deserved honor!

Mrs. Sena Rider Honored with Lifetime Presidential Volunteer Service Award

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We are proud to announce that Mrs. Sena Rider has received the Lifetime Presidential Volunteer Service Award for dedicating over 4,000 volunteer hours to her community. Her selfless service spans more than a decade, from leading her local PTA and volunteering in classrooms to serving as a Sunday school teacher and small group leader. She has donated platelets 24 times at the Red Cross, played a vital role in encampments and schoolhouses, and now serves as a location coordinator for Wreaths Across America. Her unwavering dedication is an inspiration to us all. Congratulations, Mrs. Rider!

Honoring Nona Mallicoat: 2024 Adult Volunteer of the Year

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We are proud to announce Nona Mallicoat as our 2024 Adult Volunteer of the Year! Since joining in 2006, she has played a vital role in shaping our unit, serving in multiple leadership positions, including Female Staff Advisor, Training Officer, and Unit Encampment Specialist. Her impact extends beyond our unit, as she recently stepped into the role of Division 5 Commander. A ten-year United States Marine Corps veteran, Ms. Mallicoat’s dedication and leadership have left a lasting mark. When she’s not leading, she enjoys spending time with her son, reading, and traveling—so much so that she even works as a travel agent! Congratulations, Ms. Mallicoat, and Oorah!

Pushing Through the Rain at the DDR Dash Jog-A-Thon

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Rain didn’t stop the energy at the DDR Dash Jog-A-Thon—congrats to our top runners!
Rain didn’t stop the energy at the DDR Dash Jog-A-Thon—congrats to our top runners!

Despite the soggy weather, our unit brought unstoppable energy to the DDR Dash Jog-A-Thon! A huge Oorah to YM/SGT Brown for securing first place with an impressive 34 laps! Another big shoutout to Mr. Millikan, who participated just for fun and still managed to take second place with 29 laps. Rain or shine, we always give it our all—great job, everyone!

Favorite Links

-Young Marine National HQ
-Community Military Appreciation Committee (CMAC)
-Marine Corp League, Columbia River Detachment #826 on FB
-Wreaths Across America
-Red Ribbon Campaign
-Camp Hope of SW Washington

Location

Vancouver, Washington