MCRD/ERR PARRIS ISLAND, S.C. -- The Marine Corps League Yellow Footprints Detachment is joining the Adopt-a-Highway program, and is planning to obtain the stretch of highway from the main gate of Parris Island to the Bi-Lo on the Parris Island Gateway, April 3.
"While this piece of highway is not the first highway adopted by the Marine Corps League, it is the first in this area," said Master Gunnery Sgt. Donald R. Garland Jr., Commandant of the Marine Corps League Yellow Footprints Detachment.
In order to join the Adopt-a-Highway program, applicants must prove that participants
have the manpower and time available to properly care for the selected section. When organizations obtain a section of highway, they are obligated to fulfill a one- or two-year contract, during which they use no personal funds on upkeep.
"Sometimes people will say they will take care of some road and they will not carry through," said Garland. "That leaves the program in trouble."
Adopt-a-Highway duties include picking up trash, placing signs and other simple construction.
"All you've got to do is pick up a little trash and keep the place neat," said Garland. "It's not that hard, really."
Citizen involvement within the Adopt-a-Highway program helps the state save money for beautification projects on the roads, by eliminating the need for paid cleanup crews.
Sections of roads that are adopted have shown to be significantly less polluted than regular stretches of road that are cared for by commercial crews, according to the
Adopt-a-Highway Web site.
The Marine Corps League will maintain the section of highway for one year then decide if they wish to renew the contract.
The Marine Corps League is a group of retired and active duty Marines who actively support the Marine Corps, and participate in community relations and events geared toward educating people about the Marine Corps and its history.
The adoption is part of the Marine Corps League's effort to help the community and create a positive community atmosphere in and around Marine Corps bases.
For more information about the Yellow Footprints Detachment, contact Master Gunnery Sgt. Donald Garland at 228-3165.