MCRD/ERR PARRIS ISLAND, S.C. -- In an effort to charter a Marine Corps League Detachment aboard the Depot, a free Kick-Off Social will be held Sept. 17 at Traditions in the Officers' Lounge starting at 5 p.m. for all prospective members.
All Marines and Fleet Marine Force Navy Corpsman, past and present, are invited to attend the first of a series of socials, designed to gauge interest and identify potential members for the detachment.
"Many Marines serve honorably and return to their community to work and serve. Since we make Marines here, it is only fitting that Marines serving here and Marines that have returned to this area to live and work should form the Marine Corps League Detachment," said Master Gunnery Sgt. Donald R. Garland, Depot supply chief.
The purpose of the Marine Corps League, which was founded in 1923 by Maj. Gen. John A. Lejeune, is to preserve the traditions and promote the interests of the United States Marine Corps, said Garland.
"[Its purpose is] to band together those who are serving and those who have served honorably in fellowship, so they may effectively promote the ideals of American freedom and democracy ... to fit its members for the duties of citizenship and to encourage them to give of themselves and serve as ably as citizens as they have served their nation under arms," he said.
The League demonstrates this by participating in various community-based programs like Toys for Tots and the Veterans Administration Voluntary Service Program, among others.
According to Garland, it is important to keep the traditions associated with the League alive.
"[The League's purpose is] to hold sacred the history and memory of the men who have given the ultimate sacrifice for our nation and to foster love for the principles which they have supported by blood and valor since the founding of our Republic," he said.
To qualify, prospective members must be Marines or FMF Navy Corpsman who are currently serving active duty honorably, or who have served honorably and since been discharged under honorable conditions, said Garland.
The social is free, however, anyone who is qualified and wishes to sign up for the new detachment the night of the social is required to pay a $25 registration fee, said Garland. He also said he hopes to apply for the Charter of the League before October, depending on the number of qualified applicants who attend the socials.
"It is our hope that we can contribute to the quality of life for our members and our Marines stationed in the Beaufort area," he said.
For more information about upcoming socials, contact Garland at 228-3165.