Organization Background
In today's world, there are many opportunities for young Americans to be led astray into crime, drug use, poor academic performance,
as well as other vices. In the Young Marines, peer pressure is exerted toward wholesome ends such as school work, sports, physical
fitness and other school and community activities.
As part of the national effort to "stem the tide" of drug use, the National Defense Authorization Act of 1993 tasked the Secretary
of Defense with the establishment of programs aimed at reducing the demand for illegal drugs. The U.S. Marine Corps' response was
to officially recognize the Firebird Young Marines in July 1993, as the focal organization for the Marine Corps' contribution to
Youth Drug Demand Reduction efforts. The Firebird Young Marines is an IRS approved 501c(3) tax exempt youth educational organization.
The Young Marine units are run by dedicated adult volunteers. Adult leaders are individually screened by the National Headquarters
based on background information and recommendations provided with each person's registration.
Currently there are over 200 Young Marine units nationwide as well as 4 units in Okinawa, Japan. Internationally, there are over
14,000 Young Marine members and 2,200 adult staff volunteers. On the national level, the program consists of a National Director
and 2 Assistant Directors. In addition, there is a Firebird Young Marines Board of Directors consisting of 12 members who are elected
for 3-year terms.