PHOTO INFORMATION: State Rep. Phil Green (speaking with frame) presented a special tribute on Thursday, Jan. 8 to the Lapeer County Young Marines Unit after the group was selected as the Michigan Regiment Young Marines Unit of the Year.   

Young Marines is a national non-profit youth education and service program for boys and girls aged eight through high school graduation. The group focuses on teaching the values of leadership, teamwork and self-discipline so kids can live and promote a healthy, drug-free lifestyle while contributing positively to their communities. The Lapeer County Unit has been serving the county and surrounding areas for over 30 years after being chartered in October of 1994.

Green noted that as the busiest Young Marines unit in the state of Michigan, the Lapeer County Young Marines devote hundreds of hours annually to community service, supporting veterans, civic organizations, and local community groups. With 21 youth members and 10 adult volunteers, the unit exemplifies teamwork, discipline, and service above self.

“This is an honor that reflects decades of exemplary service, leadership, and commitment to excellence,” Green said. “I commend this group, its organizers, and these young leaders for the outstanding things they have done and will continue to do for their communities and fellow community members. Groups like these shape the future leaders of our state and nation, while making our area a better place to live and raise our families.”

The group’s highlights from the past year included extraordinary fundraising efforts enabling 15 members to travel to Hawaii to participate in 2025 Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day events. While there, members cleaned beaches at a Marine Corps base, attended the solemn Punchbowl ceremony, marched in the parade and represented Michigan with distinction. During the parade, a member of the Lapeer County Unit proudly called cadence for Young Marines gathered from across the country.

Green represents Lapeer as part of the 67^th House District.