The Young Marines program has been a part of my life since I was three. All of my siblings and myself have gone through the program. Growing up, I have seen a difference from myself compared to others in my school not in Young Marines. From when I first started the program at age eight, to where I am today, I have grown enormously, mostly in leadership. When I was eleven years old I attended Junior Leadership School. I got homesick and was nervous being away from home. By the time I attended Advanced Leadership School, I gained more confidence and was sad to leave to go home. My favorite quality about this program is the friendships that are gained over the events. I have been to numerous places, including Hawaii, France, Oregon, and much more. I would have never visited these places if it weren’t for the program along with meeting my lifetime best friends. Along with traveling to meet new people, I have had the opportunities to meet hero’s of America. The Young Marines program has given me the chance to meet veterans from World War II, Navajo Code Talkers, and many more. This opportunity is one that I would not be able to get somewhere else. The feeling I get when I shake a veterans hand and thank them for their service gives me the chills every time. Our youth in society today do not understand the importance of this and I am glad we have a program to teach it. In addition, I have learned to stay true to myself and stay away from the negative atmosphere that drugs bring. After retiring from the Young Marines program I have recently joined Young Marine Alumni Association and am now an Adult Volunteer. I am glad I can give back to the program that gave so much to me. I encourage everyone to look into the Young Marines program as it is a life changing program for the best.