KINGMAN, Ariz. – The Kingman Young Marines celebrated the national organization’s 67th birthday; it was established in 1959 in Waterbury, Connecticut by the Brass City Detachment of the Marine Corps League.
At the celebration in Kingman, held at College Park Church, they also held a dedication to honor their former Unit Commander, Arizona Department of Public Safety (AZDPS) Aviation Supervisor, Robert Skankey, who was killed in the line of duty.
Kingman Mayor Ken Watkins was the Guest of Honor. “The Young Marines are our future, said Watkins.”
The Young Marines, focused on leadership, discipline, teamwork, and community service, are comprised of both young men and young women who range in age from eight years through high school.
Kingman’s Young Marines Unit was established in September 2022 by Marine Lt. Col. Robert Skankey and local Marine Corps League Senior Vice Commander, Terry Flanagan.
The youngsters’ activities include community service projects, color guard presentations at local events, drill practice and parades.
Today, the Young Marines are led by Unit Commander Jennifer Dach who explained what they do for their birthday ball.
“We do a ceremony cake cutting,” Dach said. “A piece goes to the guest of honor, in this case Mayor Watkins, then a piece is handed to the oldest young marine. They hand it to the youngest and then they get a piece.”
Adult Volunteer of the Year was awarded to Jacob Miramontez.
Lance Corporal Kevin Murillo was selected as the Young Marine of the Year.
“Saturday night was truly a special evening, and I couldn’t have been prouder of our Young Marines,” Unit Commander Dach said. “Watching them come together, enjoy themselves, and represent our unit with such pride and respect meant so much to me. They did an amazing job, and seeing how far they’ve come was incredibly rewarding. Looking ahead, we’re excited for our Recruit Day on October 24 as we welcome new youth into our Young Marines family. We’ll also be working hard to raise money for our summer trip to Washington, D.C., which will be an incredible opportunity for our Young Marines to learn, grow, and make memories together.”
