Japan UPDATE: Troop Involvment in Nuclear Meltdown
Added March 17, 2011
Japan continues to deal with the effects of last week's devastating earthquake, including damage to a nuclear power plant in Fukushima that could potentially lead to a meltdown. The Pentagon is preparing our troops for a worst-case scenario and creating precautions that will keep them safe if the situation worsens.
Click here to keep reading.
March 10: PTSD Chat with Dr. Cantrell
Added March 4, 2011
Bridget Cantrell, Ph.D., will be participating in Marine Parents’ monthly online discussion on Thursday, March 10, at 8 p.m. CT in the Marine Parents chat room. Dr. Cantrell has written several books on combat recovery, and she will be discussing post-traumatic stress disorder and warrior transitioning. Military members and families interested in knowing more about issues related to combat recovery are encouraged to participate in the chat.
Click here to learn more about Dr. Cantrell's chat nights.
Click here to access the chat room. You must scroll to the bottom of the page to enter.
Spring Care Packet Project™ Campaign: Donate Hygiene Items!
Added February 25, 2011
Our deployed Marines are without the small comforts of home that we sometimes take for granted. They often don't have access to shower facilities, so let's ship them some substitutes! We are collecting donations of baby wipes and toothbrushes to include in the care packages we'll assemble on our April 30th Pack Day. You can purchase these items from our EGA Store, and they'll ship directly to our Care Packet Project™ warehouse.
Click here for more information!
Click here to donate wipes and toothbrushes!
New Marine Online Mass Communication Solution
Added February 23, 2011
A new system called the Marine Online Mass Communication Solution was recently put in place for parent and family contact information to be conveniently accessed and utilized. This solution will increase efficiency of communication between commanders and Family Readiness Officers (FRO) and their Marines, spouses and families.
Click here to keep reading.
The National Resource Directory
Added February 9, 2011
A website created by the Defense, Labor and Veterans Affairs departments is proving to be an excellent starting point for wounded warriors, service members, veterans and their families seeking information and assistance. It aims to support the recovery, rehabilitation and community reintegration of service members.
The online directory, called the National Resource Directory, offers thousands of state, local and national resources for a vast amount of topics: employment, benefits and compensation, education and training, health and housing, among others.
Click here to keep reading.
The Revised Post-9/11 GI Bill
Added February 8, 2011
On January 4, 2011, President Obama sign into law the Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Improvements Act, otherwise known as the Post-9/11 GI Bill 2.0. This law contains several new provisions to help expand the benefits and coverage established under the original Post-9/11 GI Bill, which didn't cover all veterans equally.
Click here to keep reading.
Marine Parents Outreach Dinner: January 22, 2011
Added January 27, 2011
The evening of the pack day many of our volunteers, a few former Marines and other Marine families and supporters attended our Marine Parents Outreach Dinner.
The dinner was an amazing opportunity to show others the good works that Marine Parents does, and it gave attendees the chance to share their Marine Corps stories with each other.
Click here to keep reading.
The Heart Of A Marine Hearts of Valor Ball
Added January 27, 2011
The Heart of a Marine Foundation is hosting the 2011 Hearts of Valor Ball on Saturday, February 12, 2011, in celebration of the United States Armed Forces, veterans and families.
The ball will be held at the Stonegate Conference and Banquet Centre in Hoffman Estates, Illinois, and tickets are $85 per person.
Click here to keep reading.
Local Students Get Involved in The Care Packet Project™
Added January 27, 2011
On January 6th and 13th, a University of Missouri student organization called the Mizzou Black Men's Initiative volunteered in our Care Packet Project™ warehouse in preparation for our January 22nd pack day.
The organization's members gave themselves a goal of completing 200 service hours over their winter break, and Marine Parents was one of the organizations they wanted to help.
Click here to keep reading.
Rescuing a Marine's Best Friend
Added January 17, 2011
In September 2010 Julie, a mom on the Marine Parents message boards, posted an interesting request to other message board members: to help her rescue her son's company's dog.
Her son's squad was anticipating the end of their deployment, and they were worried about the fate of the huge Afghan wolfhound that had become the squad's protector.
Click here to keep reading.
Follow Marine Parents On Our Facebook Fan Page!
Added January 11, 2011
As you probably know, Marine Parents has a facebook profile page where users can "friend" us to view our updates. However, we have reached our friend limit on that page and we cannot add any more friends. To resolve this and allow more users to view our status updates and news, we created a fan page where an unlimited number of users can "like" us to receive our daily updates in their news feed.
Stay on top of Marine Parents news! Visit our Facebook fan page here and click the "like" button. We are constantly posting information and resources for Marine families and friends as well as news about what's going on with Marine Parents and our outreach programs!
Click here to visit our Facebook fan page.
The Care Packet Project™ Will be Assembling Care Packages on Extreme Makeover Home Edition!
Added January 11, 2011
We weren't able to disclose any specific information until now, but....
The extreme care packages we have been talking about for weeks will actually be featured on the TV show Extreme Makeover Home Edition! ABC will be shooting footage of Marine Parents and the Care Packet Project™ assembling care packages in Beaufort, South Carolina in conjunction with the demolition and rebuilding of a home.
Click here for more information!
New Two-Way Service from MotoMail
Added January 11, 2011
MotoMail, the site that allows family and friends of Marines deployed in Afghanistan to send their Marines electronic letters for free, now offers a two-way service.
Marines can send letters back to their loved ones in the U.S., who will receive the letter in as little as 24 hours.
Military members can write five free letters, and then they will cost 50 cents per letter.
Click here for more information.
24th Annual Leadership Symposium for Service Women: March 15-16, 2011
Added January 5, 2011
The Sea Service Leadership Association (SSLA) is holding its 24th Annual Women’s Leadership Symposium in San Diego, CA, and registration for this event is open to women from all service branches. The symposium is the largest gathering of service women nationwide, and this year it will highlight the achievements of women in leadership positions worldwide and offer attendees the opportunity to develop their leadership skills.
Click here to visit the information and registration page.
Help Us With Our Care Packet Project™ 2.0 Campaign!
Added January 5, 2011
Marine Parents and The Care Packet Project™ are breaking new ground and taking on not one, but TWO care package events this month! That means more care packages, more content and more shipping funds, and WE NEED YOUR HELP!
Click here to learn how you can contribute!
National Military Family Association Provides Scholarships For Military Spouses
Added January 4, 2011
It can sometimes be difficult for military spouses to pursue the training or education necessary for career advancement, but the National Military Family Association provides scholarships that help ease the financial limitations that are often present. The scholarships are available to spouses of all uniformed service members after completion of survey and essay questions and the presentation of a valid military ID.
Click here for more information.
Care Packet Project™ to be in South Carolina Jan. 13th!
Added December 29, 2010
Marine Parents and The Care Packet Project™ have exciting news! The Care Packet Project™ will be packing care packages in Beaufort, South Carolina, on January 13. We wanted to give Marine families and supporters who don't live near our Missouri-based office the opportunity to participate in this incredible show of troop support. If you live in the southeast region of the U.S. we would love for you to come out and volunteer with us!
Click here for more information and to register as a volunteer in South Carolina!
Join Us for an Outreach Dinner on January 22nd
Added December 29, 2010
On the evening of our January 22nd pack day, after all boxes are filled and ready to be shipped overseas, join us for a casual night of food, drinks and camaraderie.
Marine Parents is hosting an outreach dinner at the Courtyard Marriott right down the street, where Marine families, friends and supporters will have the opportunity to hear Marine Cpl. Aaron Mankin tell his inspiring story about recovering from an IED explosion in Iraq.
Click here for more information and to purchase tickets.
Registration for January 22nd Pack Day is Open!
Added December 29, 2010
We will be packing and shipping care packages for Marines in Afghanistan on Saturday, January 22, 2011. Come volunteer your time in our packing facility at our corporate office in Columbia, Missouri. It's a great way to support our troops, and we have a lot of fun! If you need overnight accomodations, there are $59 rooms at the Courtyard Marriott just a mile down the road. Call 573-443-8000 and ask for the "Marine Parents Rate" to qualify.
Click here for more information on the pack day and to register as a volunteer.
Marine Corps Offers New Counseling Service
Added December 27, 2010
A new service was developed by the Marine Corps called the DSTRESS Line. It provides 24/7 counseling support for Marines, Marine Veterans, and their families and loved ones. The anonymous counseling consists of professional support for any stress-related issue including work, personal, relationship, family and financial. Call 877-476-7734 any time of the day or week to speak with someone who can help.
Click here for more information.
Participate in a PTSD Chat with Dr. Cantrell
Added December 13, 2010
Bridget Cantrell, Ph.D., will be participating in Marine Parents’ monthly online discussion on Thursday, December 30th, at 8 p.m. CT in the Marine Parents chat room. Dr. Cantrell has written several books on combat recovery, and she will be discussing post-traumatic stress disorder and warrior transitioning. Military members and families interested in knowing more about issues related to combat recovery are encouraged to participate in the chat.
Click here to learn more about Dr. Cantrell's chat nights.
Click here access the chat room.You must scroll to the bottom of the page to enter.
DoD Extends Deadline to Apply for Stop Loss Special Pay
Added December 9, 2010
The deadline for eligible service members, veterans and their beneficiaries to apply to receive Retroactive Stop Loss Special Pay (RSLSP) has again been extended by the Department of Defense. The most current deadline to submit a claim for this pay is December 18th.
Those eligible include military members whose service was involuntarily extended under Stop Loss between September 11, 2001, and September 30, 2009.
Click here for more information or to apply for RSLSP.
Resource for Military Families Helps With Deployment
Added December 7, 2010
The Defense Centers of Excellence for Psychological Health and Traumatic Brain Injury (DCoE) is releasing a multimedia toolkit to help families of deployed service members cope through each stage of the deployment.
The kit includes a handbook and a video designed to guide family and friends through the emotional struggles that are a result of having a loved one deployed. It will help them understand what to expect before, during and after the deployment of their service member.
Click here for more information and to request a toolkit.
Commandant's 2010 Birthday Message and Video
Added November 10, 2010
Happy 235th Birthday Marines! Today is the day to celebrate all Marines, past and present, and recognize their great service to our country. Watch the Commandant's birthday video and read his message to see what he has to say this year.
Click here to visit the official Marine Corps website where you can download the video and read the Commandant's message.
Registration for November 6th Pack Day is Open!
Added October 14, 2010
We will be packing and shipping care packages for Marines in Afghanistan on Saturday, November 6th, 2010. Come volunteer your time in our packing facility at our corporate office in Columbia, Missouri. There are discounted rates at the hotel just a mile down the road. Just call our office at (573) 449-2003, option 3 and we will make the reservation for you.
Click here for more information on the pack day, and we hope to see you there!
Gold Star Mother’s Day 2010 Success!
Added October 7, 2010
On September 26th, individuals, neighborhoods and cities across the country united in honoring Gold Star Mothers. More awareness was created about Gold Star Mother’s Day this year, and it shows in the participation we have seen.
Many of our volunteers displayed their Gold Star Luminaries outside and shared their significance with their neighbors. Other Marine families set up beautiful luminary displays and posted pictures on Facebook.
We are so glad that more people are getting involved in honoring Gold Star Mothers, and we’d like to share with you how others recognized this important day.
Click here to read more...
Health and Educational Resources for Marines and Families
Added October 7, 2010
Bridget Cantrell, Ph.D., will be participating in Marine Parents’ monthly online discussion tonight, October 7th, at 8 p.m. CT in the Marine Parents chat room. Dr. Cantrell has written several books on combat recovery, and she will be discussing post-traumatic stress disorder and warrior transitioning. Military members and families interested in knowing more about issues related to combat recovery are encouraged to participate in the chat.
Click here to learn more about Dr. Cantrell's chat nights.
Click here access the chat room.You must scroll to the bottom of the page to enter.
Insurance Issues for Military Members and Their Families
Added October 7, 2010
According to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners, knowing how to handle insurance plans and coverage during deployments can sometimes be difficult. Military members should talk to their insurance agents and see if they offer any specialized plans that consider their needs. Be sure to ask your agent specific questions about how insurance renewals and premium payments are handled while deployed.
Click here to learn more about insurance coverage for service members.
UPDATE: DoD Announces Extended Deadline For Retroactive Stop Loss Special Pay
Added October 5, 2010
The Department of Defense has stated that all service members, veterans and beneficiaries are eligible for compensation if their service had been involuntarily extended under Stop Loss between September 11, 2001 and September 30, 2009.
The original deadline to submit a claim in order to receive the benefit was October 21, 2010, but the DoD recently extended the deadline to December 3, 2010, per a resolution signed by President Obama that provides funding for federal government operations through that date.
Those eligible for Retroactive Stop Loss Special Pay should apply as soon as possible to avoid increased processing time. Visit www.defense.gov/stoploss for more information and to apply.
Click here to read the official DoD statement.
Health and Educational Resources for Marines and Families
Added September 29, 2010
One of the official USMC websites offers an extensive document containing medical, behavior and mental health resources as well as educational resources for Marines and their families. The document provides phone numbers and websites for each resource and is an excellent go-to guide for any Marine or family member in need of assistance.
Click here to download the document.
Participate in the All-States Challenge...Become a Care Package Sponsor!
Added September 29, 2010
As many of you know, our Care Packet Project™ sends about 1200 care packages to Marines overseas five times a year.
Part of the project includes the All-States Challenge, which encourages each state to gather monthly sponsors who will fund care packages for Marines each month.
We have made significant progress with this thanks to all of our generous sponsors! We have sponsors from 39 states, and together they have reached a grand total of 559 sponsored care packages - almost half the number of care packages we ship on each pack day!
This is an incredible accomplishment, and we know we can soon get all 50 states involved!
Texas is currently taking the lead in this challenge at 64 sponsored care packages, but YOU can help get your state in the running. Encourage your family and friends to participate too, and watch your state's progress on our website.
Click here to learn more about becoming a sponsor!
DoD Announces Absentee Voting Week:
Sept. 27 to Oct. 4
Added September 27, 2010
The Department of Defense announced today that Absentee Voting Week will take place from September 27th through October 4th and is encouraging all citizens voting by absentee ballot to fill out the ballot as soon as possible.
The DoD also encouraged the use of new online tools to fill out the absentee ballot as well as the use of email and fax to make the process quicker. Absentees can go to FVAP.gov to fill out their state ballot or the federal write-in absentee ballot.
Click here to read the official DoD statement.
Let’s Help the Marines Celebrate Their 235th Birthday!
Added September 27, 2010
The Marine Corps will be 235 years old this November 10th, so let’s say Happy Birthday! We are shipping out about 1200 birthday-themed care packages for Marines on November 6th, and they will include essentials for Marines as well as a Twinkie and birthday candles so they can enjoy some “birthday cake”!
We would also like to include a birthday card or letter in every care package to let the Marines know we are thinking about them on this important day. We are only about a month away from our care package pack day, and we are very short on birthday cards to send.
Please send us cards or letters wishing the Marines a happy birthday by October 30th. You can also purchase Marine Corp birthday cards in packages from our EGA Store by clicking here. Just write a special note on the inside and send them to:
MarineParents.com, Inc.
Attn: Happy Birthday Marine!
PO Box 1115
Columbia, MO 65205
Thank you for supporting our Marines on their birthday!
Wounded Warriors to Attend Marine Corps Birthday Ball
Added September 21, 2010
On November 19, 2010, the Wounded Warrior Barracks in San Diego will hold a Marine Corps Birthday Ball for 300 wounded, ill and injured Marines at the Westin Hotel. The Marine Corps Birthday is a very important day for all Marines, but for some of our Wounded Warriors this ball has greater meaning.
Some will be attending the ball for the first time; for others this will be their last Marine Corps Birthday Ball as they will soon be discharged from the Marine Corps due to the extent of their injuries.
Click here to learn more...
Kansas City Marines Hold Memorial Dedication and Tribute Ceremony
Added September 17, 2010
On Saturday, October 2nd the 24th Marine Regiment of Kansas City will hold a public ceremony to honor the 39 Marines and one Navy Corpsman who were killed in action during Operation Iraqi Freedom. They will also dedicate a memorial to all of the unit’s Marines and Sailors who have given their lives since the unit’s establishment.
Attendees can also attend USMC Family Day, which will be taking place before and after the dedication and tribute ceremony. The public is welcome to attend all events, which include a performance by the US Marine Band, military displays of the KC Marines and free food and beverages. Admission is free, but attendees must RSVP and specify whether they will be attending the entire Family Day or just the dedication ceremony.
To learn more, download the event information page here.
San Francisco Fleet Week 2010
Added September 7, 2010
The San Francisco Fleet Week Association (SFFWA) holds a number of week-long events each year to honor the men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces for their dedication to duty and sacrifice. Among these events are a parade of ships, an air show and a "Navy in Space" exhibit. This year the events take place from October 7th to October 12th.
In addition to the shows and exhibits, SFFWA executes part of its mission this week by providing disaster preparation education and training to civic emergency agencies.
If you're in the area, San Francisco Fleet Week is a fun event for the whole family and a great way to support our troops. You can buy tickets now by visiting the website, and you can also sign up to be a volunteer or sponsor.
Click here to learn more about San Francico Fleet Week.
DoD Announces Retroactive Stop Loss Special Pay
Added September 7, 2010
The Department of Defense made an announcement pertaining to service members, veterans and beneficiaries of service members whose service was involuntarily extended under Stop Loss between Sept. 11, 2001 and Sept. 30, 2009.
The 2009 War Supplemental Appropriations Act established Retroactive Stop Loss Special Pay (RSLSP), which requires that $500 be paid for each month/partial month served in stop loss status. Per the DoD, those who served under stop loss are eligible for RSLSP and must submit a claim by October 21, 2010.
Click here to for more information on RSLSP.
Download Stop Loss Reminder Fact Sheet.
Run for Remembrance
Added August 10, 2010
Show your support for Gold Star Families this September 11th by participating in the Remembering the Brave Run for Remembrance in Aurora, CO.
The run will take place the morning of the Remembering the Brave Ceremony, and the money raised will go to the Remembering the Brave Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to honoring and supporting fallen service members and their families.
There are three races you can choose from: a 10K run, a 5K Ruck March (which is actually a brisk walk!), and a 1 mile kids run. Following the races will be an award ceremony featuring a special guest speaker. Come join the fun and support a great cause!
Click here for more information and to register!
Overseas Military, Tobacco and PACT Act (Prevent All Cigarette Trafficking)
Added July 14, 2010
The legislation (coined PACT Act for "Prevent All Cigarette Trafficking") bans the postal service from handling smokeless tobacco, chewing tobacco and roll your own cigarette tobacco. Additionally, interpretations of the law are making it confusing for not only family members, but postal workers to make a firm decision on whether or not we are allowed to send a pack of cigarettes or our military men and women.
Click here to learn more…
Summer Drives 2010 for Marines in Afghanistan
Added July 13, 2010
This is the summer of drives! We're holding two drives for items to ship to Marines and we're asking YOU to hold a drive in your community as well. Our warehouse is virtually empty and we've got to ship 1100 care packages to Marines in Afghanistan on August 28. We've got the funding well under way with the Dollar Campaign, and now we need the products to send! Join Marine Parents in covering the essentials our troops need. Contribute to one of our care package drives today!
Click here to learn more…
BEWARE! Not Our Care Packet Project™
Added June 29, 2010
It has been brought to our attention that some folks are soliciting donations door-to-door for a “Care Package Campaign” sponsored by Prize Point. BEWARE! This is NOT our Care Packet Project™ and we do NOT conduct door-to-door fundraising. We suggest you contact your local police department to report door-to-door solicitations for donations.
Click here to learn more…
Marine Aviator Gen. James Amos: Next Commandant?
Added June 23, 2010
In a recent press release from the Department of Defense, Secretary Gates addressed the impending change in senior Marine Corps leadership positions. After four decades of faithful service, Gen. James Conway will complete his term as commandant this fall and retire from the Marine Corps. Secretary Gates has recommended that Gen. James Amos be nominated as the next commandant of the United States Marine Corps. Gen. Amos would be the first aviator to reach the Corps’ top job.
Click here to learn more…
Give One Minute a Day for Wounded Warriors
Added April 1, 2010
Attention Marine families and supporters! WE NEED YOUR HELP!
The Marine Parents outreach program, Purple Heart Hero Support™, is in the running for a $250,000 Pepsi Refresh Project grant and we need your vote to win the competition!
With the Pepsi Grant, we will be able to turn our 200 meals a year served in 2 hospitals into 20,000 meals served a year in 4 hospitals. There are many great ideas out there, but who could be a more worthy recipient than our Wounded Warriors and their families?
Take one minute a day to vote for our Wounded Warriors!
Click here to watch the You Tube video and learn how to vote!
Attention Marine Families - Call to Action
Added January 26, 2010
Actor R. Lee Ermey to Announce Effort to Give Marine Corps Equal Status with Navy
An important cause affecting The Few and The Proud needs your help. For more than two centuries, the Marine Corps has fought side by side with the Navy. However, our Marines are not given equal recognition when it comes to the department they work for.
Click here to learn more…
Marine Parents Celebrates 7th Anniversary
Added January 14, 2010
On January 20, Marine Parents will celebrate the seventh anniversary of supporting Marine families and Marines. Founder and Executive Director, Tracy Della Vecchia writes a letter of congratulations to families in this week's newsletter.
Click here to read newsletter...
Looking for "A Few Good Parents"
Added December 29, 2009
The Marine Corps is looking for “A Few Good Parents” to tell the story of those young men and women who have made the decision to serve our Nation by becoming United States Marines, and the parents and mentors who have guided and supported them along the way. If you would be comfortable speaking on camera, are available during the months of February and March 2010, and are a proud parent of a Marine, contact JWT (the Marine Corps' advertising agency for over 60 years) today.
Click here to learn more…
Give A Day - Get A Disney Day
Added December 29, 2009
Marine Parents volunteers are eligible to receive one-day admission to a theme park at Disneyland® Resort or Walt Disney World® Resort, free. In 2010, the Give A Day. Get A Disney Day. program will earmark one million free tickets to recognize volunteers and celebrate their good work. Volunteer registration for the program will open January 1. To take full advantage of this opportunity,
Click here to learn more…
Sending Holiday Mail to Your Marine?
Added November 23, 2009
The United States Postal Service issued a Press Release to address “Bringing the Holidays to Military Men and Women.” The release contains their recommended mailing dates to APO/FPO addresses to ensure delivery of holiday cards and packages by December 25. For these deadlines and more on sending care packages to your Marine, use the link below. The 2009 Military Mailing Deadlines and a link to the full press release are found at the bottom of the page.
Click here to learn more...
Support the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation this Holiday Season
Added November 23, 2009
The primary goal of the Toys for Tots Foundation is to deliver – through a new toy at Christmas – a message of hope to less fortunate youngsters that will assist them into becoming responsible, productive, patriotic citizens. There are two ways you can give to Toys for Tots for free this year!
Click here to learn more...
Focus Group for Parents of Marines
Added November 9, 2009
Hosted by Marine Corps Family Team Building. All proud parents of Marines are invited to attend this December 5th focus group at Camp Pendleton.
Click here to learn more...
Marine Parents Open House & Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
Added October 27, 2009
The forced move of the Marine Parents Corporate Office created a long and often challenging journey. Over the past nine months we have been blessed by an outpouring of support in the form of monetary donations, donated material, and an abundance of donated time and labor. Renovating a warehouse into workable office space was no easy feat – it’s time to celebrate and offer a heartfelt thank you to all who made it possible.
Click here to learn more about the October 31st Ribbon Cutting...
Commandant’s 2009 Birthday Message
Added October 27, 2009
Commandant of the Marine Corps, General James T. Conway, shares his message for the 234th Marine Corps Birthday.
He speaks of the Marine Corps’ history, as well as its future; and he makes a special mention of Marine Corps families – “the unsung heroes who endure hardship and sacrifice so that we are able to go forward and accomplish any mission.”
Click here to read the message in full...
Wreaths Across America
Added October 15, 2009
“
Remember the fallen;
Honor those who serve;
Teach our children the value of freedom”
Wreaths Across America is a beautiful project to honor our veterans this and every holiday season.
The story began over 15 years ago when Worcester Wreath Company started a tradition of placing wreaths on the headstones of our Nation's fallen heroes at Arlington National Cemetery.
Click here to learn more...
Results are in... Marine Parents made Top Ten!
Updated October 27, 2009
Thanks to YOUR nominations Marine Parents made the top ten charities in the Christie Cookie Charity Giveaway! As a result of your efforts, Marine Parents will receive $1,000 in prize money! That amount will cover the cost of shipping nearly 100 care packages to our Marines in combat zones. Thank you to all who took the time to nominate Marine Parents! Your faithful support is deeply appreciated - by all of us at Marine Parents and by the men and women defending our freedom overseas.
Click here to learn more...
One Team – One Fight – One Name
Added September 3, 2009
Join us in Supporting Congressman Jones’ Bill.
This year, Congressman Walter B. Jones introduced H.R. 24, a bill to re-designate the Department of the Navy as the “Department of the Navy and Marine Corps.” Congressman Jones wrote Marine Parents asking our help in making the “Department of the Navy and Marine Corps” a reality. Read Congressman Jones’ letter, learn more about H.R. 24, and hear what Oliver North has to say in response.
Click here to learn more...
Your Cause, Your Card
Added August 25, 2009
Introducing Marine Parents credit cards from Capital One! We have three designs to choose from or you can create your own card design. Get all of the competitive credit card benefits you want and expect as well as a simple way to support Marine Parents. Show your support with every purchase you make!
Click here to learn more...
USS Jason Dunham Christened
Added August 10, 2009
The Navy's newest destroyer honors Corporal Jason Dunham, the first Marine awarded the Medal of Honor for Operation Iraqi Freedom. We spoke to Michael Phillips, author of
The Gift of Valor, about the ship’s christening.
The Gift of Valor highlights Cpl Dunham’s stunning story and the USS Jason Dunham’s crew received 400 donated copies. Michael Phillips, Broadway Books, and the Dunham Family donated the books so the crew could learn the legacy behind the ship’s name.
Click here to learn more...
Build A Sign Supports Our Troops!
Added July 23, 2009
BuildASign.com is an online custom sign and banner store and they're giving away free welcome home banners for troops. They wanted to give something back and show support for our returning service members - this is a great way to do just that.
Click here to learn more...
You Voted and Marine Parents Won!
Updated July 22, 2009
There were 8 charities in the running and THANKS TO YOUR VOTE, Marine Parents won Squidoo's $3000 prize money! The money will be used to ship care packages to deployed Marines on August 15th and will cover the cost of shipping nearly 300 packages!
Thank you to all who took the time to vote. Your unwavering support proved, once again: If Marine families can't get it done, who can?
Ooh Rah!
Click here to learn more...
Military Family of the Year Nominations
Added July 16, 2009
The National Military Family Association is accepting nominations for the Military Family of the Year Award until August 7th, 2009. Winner Receives a trip to Washington DC in October 2009 and $1,000.
Click here to learn more...
September Session for Parents & Extended Family Members
Added July 7, 2009
L.I.N.K.S. - brought to you by Marine Corps Family Team Building – recognizes that for many of our Marines, their parents and extended family members play a major role in their lives, providing them both support and advice.
To learn more about the upcoming LINKS event,
Click here...
Marine Parents Volunteers Awarded
Added June 11, 2009
MarineParents.com, Inc. is a non-profit organization that relies largely on the time and talent of numerous volunteers – answering phone calls and emails, moderating message boards and chat rooms, from holding fund raisers and soliciting donations to managing various components of outreach programs, Marine Parents Volunteers do it all! This organization truly could not and would not function without the generosity and selfless support of the volunteers.
Many Marine Parents Volunteers have recently received The President’s Volunteer Service Award.
Click here to read more...
New DVD for sale at MarineParents.com!
Added May 14, 2009
Directed by Canaan Brumley. An amazing documentary chronicling 12 weeks of bootcamp; true to life. This is a must-see for recruit parents that want to know what bootcamp is like.
Click here to learn more...
Donate to the Dollar Campaign!
Added May 13, 2009
Help Send Care Packages Overseas!
We have 2,000 care packages to send overseas this summer and we need your help!
Click here to learn more...
Documentary Fighting for Life
Added May 11, 2009
Premiers on Memorial Day Weekend on PBS.
Fighting for Life is a powerful, sobering and emotional feature documentary portrait of American military medicine interweaving three stories.
Click here for more info...
JetBlue Salutes Our Armed Forces
Added May 5, 2009
JetBlue is offering $1 Fares for Actvie Duty Military from select airports during National Military Appreciation Month.
Click here for more info...
News Concerning the H1N1 Virus (Swine Flu)
Added April 30, 2009
Letter from the Commanding Officer, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton
With the recent news concerning the H1N1 Flu Outbreak, I want to assure service members, their families and civilian personnel that live and work aboard Camp Pendleton that the Base continues to monitor and prepare for any potential health risks associated with this virus. Naval Hospital Camp Pendleton has ample medications available and the Base is well prepared should a health risk arise.
Click here to read full letter...
National Military Appreciation Month
Added April 30, 2009
May is National Military Appreciation Month. To show your support, buy a pair of the best socks for a Marine from Covert Threads and we'll send them in the care packages on June 6. "The Marines wear the best; let the terrorists wear the rest!"
Click here to read more...
The socks are $8/pair. To purchase online for us to ship to Marines, go to: MarineParentsInc.com/nmam-covert.asp. All major credit cards are accepted.
Military Appreciation Month
Added April 21, 2009
May is Military Appreciation Month. Please take a moment to consider how you can express your appreciation for all the sacrifices our service members make for us. Can't come up with any ideas? We wanted to share a dozen ideas with you but, we just couldn’t stop ourselves at twelve. Feel free to do a few or do them all!
Click here for Military Appreciation Month ideas...
Marine Week in Chicago
Added April 7, 2009
General James T. Conway announced inaugural Marine Week activities held in partnership with the great city of Chicago from 11-17 May 2009.
Click here to learn more...
Hero Salute: Free Admission to Anheuser-Busch Adventure Parks
Added March 12, 2009
Budweiser is honored to salute the men and women of our armed forces and their families. Throughout 2009, members of the military and as many as three direct dependents may enter any one of Anheuser-Busch's SeaWorld, Busch Gardens or Sesame Place parks with a single-day complimentary admission.
Click here to learn more...
The Way We Get By, a documentary film about the Maine Troop Greeters
Added March 3, 2009
Inside a small airport in central Maine, a group of senior citizens are making history by using handshakes and hugs to play a critical role in the Iraq war. The Way We Get By is an inspirational story about how these handshakes can change a person's life.
Click here to learn more...
The Marine Corps Needs YOUR Input
Added February 26, 2009
Headquarters Marine Corps is asking Marines, their spouses, children and extended family members to participate in the web-based survey we announced on January 16. The survey is now online and will run from Feb 23 to Mar 6. The feedback received from these efforts will help the newly restructured family readiness program improve overall communication strategies.
Click for survey link...
Camp Lejeune Water Testing
Added February 23, 2009
The United States Marine Corps encourages all those who resided at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune between 1957-1987 to register at www.marines.mil/clsurvey to receive updated information and notifications regarding the ongoing Water Study.
If you know of any family members or friends who were at Camp Lejeune during this period, please encourage them to register.
Click here to learn more...
FREE SAT/ACT Prep for Military Families
Added February 17, 2009
eKnowledge Corporation & NFL Players Tackle SAT & ACT Test Prep: Group Extends $20 Million Donation to America's Military Families For a Fourth Year.
Click here to learn more...
Major General Stone Speaking to Families in Atlanta Area
Added January 22, 2009
FOR PARKING PASS TO THIS EVENT CLICK HERE!
Major General Stone, Commanding Officer of Marine Corps Mobilization and Command (which includes IRR, Individual Ready Reserves) will be speaking in the Atlanta area on Friday, January 30. Marine Corps families are invited to attend the town-hall style meeting with opportunities to ask questions and learn more about the Marine Corps and reserves. The program will run from 1600-1800 (4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.) at Southern Polytech.
We'd like to get a count on those interested in attending and perhaps planning a meet-and-greet with parents afterward at a restaurant for dinner. To let us know your interest, please contact Barbara Gemmell at 573-303-5500 extension 109 or via email at barbara@marineparents.com. We look forward to meeting you and sharing time with the General.
FOR PARKING PASS TO THIS EVENT CLICK HERE!
Click here to learn more...
Disney Parks Celebrate U.S. Military
Added January 19, 2009
As Disney Parks ask "What Will You Celebrate?" and invite guests to turn their personal milestones into magical family vacations in 2009, America's military personnel will have one more reason to celebrate: Free multi-day admission to Disney's U.S. theme parks. Lake Buena Vista, Florida and Anaheim, California –
Click here to learn more...
The Marine Corps Needs YOUR Input
Added January 16, 2009
Headquarters Marine Corps is asking Marines, their spouses, children and extended family members to participate in focus groups and a web-based survey that will run from Feb 23 to Mar 6. The feedback received from these efforts will help the newly restructured family readiness program improve overall communication strategies. The link to the survey will be published on the Marine Parents web site beginning February 23. In addition, participants are needed for the focus group that will take place in San Diego on January 26. If you live in the area and are interested in participating, click the link below for contact information.
Click here to learn more...
Gunny Nick Popaditch
Added January 16, 2009
"The last human being I see with perfect clarity-the last I will ever fully see-does his damndest to kill me." So opens
Once a Marine, a new and stunningly personal memoir by Marine Corps Gunnery Sergeant Nick Popaditch. The fighting in Iraq and Afghanistan have produced a veritable flood of books-which is something of a surprise given the fact that the wars have yet to end and may not for many years to come. But none of these accounts are quite like
Once a Marine.
"Gunny Pop" will be a featured speaker at our 2009 Annual National Conference in San Diego this coming April 17-19, 2009. Details to follow. To learn more about Nick Popaditch, to order his book, or to learn more about this amazing Marine story...
Click to read more...
New Bulldog: Original Marine Parents Design
Added January 16, 2009
We're ringing in our 7th year with a new design from Melissa Corrado. Our new bulldog is uniquely Marine Parents. In this pose, he proudly stands atop the US Marine Corps text. Click our new bulldog to see this design on T-Shirts, coffee mugs, hoodies and more. All proceeds go to support the organization, Marine Parents. Through January 20, take $5 off orders of $50 or more. When checking out, enter coupon code BECALMLITER, expires January 20.
Click here to order...
Sign outside the Corporate Headquarters in Columbia, Missouri
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Marine Parents 6 Years in Service
Added January 16, 2009
This month, Marine Parents is celebrating its sixth anniversary of supporting Marine families and Marines. The organization started out as a web site to provide information to parents of Marines deploying to Iraq in January of 2003 and has since grown to a national organization with a far reach to Marine and recruit families, recruits, Marines and Marine Corps offices.
Click here to learn more...
Thank You Covert Threads
Added December 23rd, 2008
The best socks available for our service members in Iraq and Afghanistan are made by Covert Threads. "A Military Sock for Every Clime & Every Place" The company is also a loyal supporter of our Marines and they have recently donated two more cases of Covert Threads socks to Marines in Afghanistan. The socks were shipped to 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment in early December and we know the Marines, and their feet, will appreciate them. Thank You Covert Threads! And Merry Christmas to the Marines of 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment.
The Coming Home Project PTSD Live Video Tele-Conference
Added December 3rd, 2008
The impacts of war-related trauma don't reside solely in the Soldier, Marine, Sailor, Airman or woman. Because humans are wired to connect, the ripples radiate out and affect many, in particular those close to the veteran: including his or her spouse, children, siblings, parents, marital relationship, extended family, and significant others.
In this training, two experts on the dynamics of post traumatic stress in military families and their treatment will provide a clear review that will help us understand and treat the impacts on couples and families
of PTSD.
Click here to learn more...
Misleading Programs and Alerts!
Added Novermber 26th, 2008
In Memory of Lance Corporal Jordan Haerter - Memorial Dedication & Bridge Renaming
Added Novermber 11th, 2008
The family and friends of Marine Lcpl Jordan Haerter are proud to announce the upcoming unveiling and dedication of a public memorial with the renaming of the Sag Harbor, North Haven Bridge, to honor the courage & sacrifice of this local hero.
Click here to learn more...
Balboa Barbecue Dinner
Added Novermber 4th, 2008
Through Purple Heart Hero Support™, volunteers from MarineParents.com held their first west coast dinner for wounded warriors on Monday, November 3.
The crew of volunteers planned meals for 100 military men and women. Actual attendance topped 140 personnel.
Purple Heart Hero Support™ has been serving meals to family members at Bethesda Naval Hospital for almost two years, but this was the first venture to the west coast.
"I think we not only fed all these heroes, but were able to bring a touch of home to many" said Joyce Orrell, volunteer and manager of the monthly meal program.
Click here to learn more...
Warrior Care Month programming on ASY live
Added October 30th, 2008
Citing Warrior Care as a top priority and a solemn obligation, Secretary
Gates designated November 2008 as "Warrior Care Month" to communicate
the Department of Defense's commitment to quality care for our
Servicemembers and their families. Warrior Care Month is aimed at
increasing awareness of programs and resources available to wounded,
ill, and injured Servicemembers, their families, and those who care
about them.
As part of this awareness effort, ASYLIVE is dedicating the next four
broadcasts to Service warrior care support programs.
Click here to learn more...
Free Veterans Expeditions
Added October 14th, 2008
Outward Bound Wilderness has scheduled numerous wilderness adventures exclusively for our war veterans and they will fully fund these courses for all participants, to include their roundtrip travel costs between home and the excursion site. Their goals include helping participating veterans build a supportive community with other war veterans; facilitating discussions on readjustment and transition challenges; and re-energizing and reinvigorating our veterans' spirits with adventures and challenges in the beautiful outdoors.
Click here to learn more...
Build Brigade Home for Injured Marine
Added September 27th, 2008
On October 2-4, 2008: We are trying to help a friend and fellow support group coordinator in Michigan get the word out for help for a "Build Brigade" for one of our wounded warriors. The home is being built for Marine Cpl. Joshua who was injured in January 2007, when he was hit by a sniper in Fallujah. He spent 14 months at Walter Reed.
Click here to learn more...
Click for slide show...
Remembering the Brave
Added September 29th, 2008
On October 25, 2008: The Remembering the Brave Foundation is a non-profit, all-volunteer organization dedicated to preserving the memories of our brave service members who have made the ultimate sacrifice, and honoring their families in their time of enormous loss. They will be holding a ceremony for Gold Star family members from all branches of the service on October 25, 2008 in San Diego, California.
Click here to learn more...
Birthday Box Campaign
Added September 24th, 2008
We've got a great lineup planned with the Marine Corps Birthday boxes to ship to our Marines in Iraq and Afghanistan this year, and we need your help with collecting 1000 Birthday Cards and $6000 for the items to ship to the Marines.
Click here to learn more...
Marine Parents Fundraiser Featured in Success From Home Magazine
Added September 9, 2008
Do you send greeting cards, or know someone who does? Or do you find yourself wondering what to say in a daily letter to your recruit? What if you could easily send REAL greetings cards anywhere in the world, with the click of your mouse? Do you think you'd send more cards to people you care about?
One of our fundraisers is SendOutCards, an online greeting service featured in the October issue of
"Success From Home" magazine, on sale now nationwide, and available at Barnes & Noble, B. Dalton, Borders, Books-A-Million and Staples.
Click here to read more...
Bing West's Third Book on the Iraq War Released August 11, 2008
Added August 12, 2008
The war I witnessed for more than five years in Iraq is over. In July, there were five American fatalities in Iraq, the lowest since the war began in March 2003. In Mosul recently, I chatted with shopkeepers on the same corner where last January a Humvee was blown apart in front of me. In the Baghdad district of Ghazilia -- where last January snipers controlled streets awash in human waste -- I saw clean streets and soccer games. In Basra, the local British colonel was dining at a restaurant in the center of the bustling city.
Click here to read full article...
Show America You Care!
Added August 12, 2008
In conjunction with the National America Supports You Freedom Walk, MarineParents.com encourages our members to show your American spirit by committing to participating in or organizing a Freedom Walk.
Click here to learn more...
My Miracle Marine on The Laura Ingraham Show
Added August 1, 2008
On July 30th, 2008, three-time Purple Heart recipient Lance Corporal John McClellan was in Laura Ingraham's Washington studio as a guest on The Laura Ingraham Show. John's mother Connie, author of
My Miracle Marine, also joined the show participating in the interview via phone.
Click here to learn more and listen to the show...
3/6 Lima Marines Successfully Re Supplied
Added July 13, 2008
On July 1, 2008 a fire at the outpost of 3rd Battalion, 6th Marines, Lima Co. in Fallujah Iraq destroyed all the wooden structures and most of the Marines' personal belongings. Concerned members of the Marine family community rallied together to answer calls from family members of 3/6 Lima Marines, to help resupply their destroyed personal items.
A generous outpouring of support has helped to re supply these Marines but now it is time to shift the support elsewhere. Please see an important letter from the Public Affairs Officer at 2nd Marine Division.
http://www.marineparents.com/announcements/threesix-lima-fire.asp
Marines Appreciate SunNight Solar Flashlights
Added July 15, 2008
GI Bill Success Makes History
Added July 8, 2008
On Monday morning, June 30th, 2008, President Bush signed into law the Post-9/11 Veterans Education Assistance Act of 2008. A new, more generous GI Bill, offering educational benefits similar to that offered to World War II veterans, has been realized.
http://www.marineparents.com/announcements/GI-new.asp
America Supports You (ASY) Freedom Walk 2008
Added July 1, 2008
Honor Bound: Inside the Guantanamo Trials
Added June 28, 2008
Kyndra Rotunda, Esquire, Author, and the military law columnist for our twice-monthly newsletter, will appear on "Hannity’s America" Sunday evening, June 29 on Fox News. He'll be talking about her new book,
Honor Bound. I just finished the book; it's very intriguing. To learn more, please see:
http://www.marineparents.com/announcements/honor-bound.asp
Marine Parents Regional Conference
Added June 12, 2008
Our first regional conference will be held in Kansas City, MO on Saturday, August 9, 2008. Our opening session on Saturday morning will include speakers from the Marine Corps office MobCom on the topic of IRR (Independent Ready Reserves) followed by breakout sessions ranging from MREs and scrapbooking to deployment and warrior transitioning. The focus of the conference will be broad and include topics and speakers on a wide-range of Marine Corps issues.
Registration for the 1-day event begins today; $100 includes the conference plus the evening dinner and program. You can register for all or part of the events.
The conference will be held at the Hilton Kansas City Airport with rooms available at $89/night for conference attendees. Free shuttle service is provided back and forth to the Kansas City airport.
For additional information and to register online, please visit the web site.
Click to learn more...
New, More Generous GI Bill Possible
Added June 12, 2008
In 1944, President Franklin Delano Roosevelt signed the original GI Bill; it was called the "Servicemen's Readjustment Act". The World War II GI Bill covered tuition, fees, and books, and gave veterans a living stipend while they were in school. Eight million combat veterans returning home from Germany and Japan were able to afford an education and a 1988 Congressional study showed that every dollar spent on educational benefits under the original GI Bill added seven dollars to the national economy in terms of productivity, consumer spending, and tax revenue.
Click to learn more...
Support Our Troops: Dollar Campaign
Added June 12, 2008
The post office has raised the prices for shipping flat rate boxes to $9.80 which increases our costs for shipping 1000 packages every 10 weeks significantly. Each summer, we find ourselves short on funds to send the care packages overseas to our Marines in August. Our total cost for shipping in August will be $9800. We need your help today!
Click to learn more...
Operation Cancun Honeymoon
Added May 5, 2008
Operation Cancun Honeymoon has raised over $7000 in less than a month! At the Third Annual National MarineParents.com Conference, Corporal Aaron Mankin was a guest speaker. It was decided at that time to raise the necessary funds to send the Corporal and his wife Diane on their honeymoon!
Click here to read more...
Radio Interview with Dr. Bridget Cantrell
Added May 4, 2008
The radio interview with Dr. Bridget Cantrell and Debbie Chavez, talk show radio host, will air on Monday, May 5 at 1:00 p.m. Pacific Time. To listen online during that time, go to:
www.debbiechavez.com. The interview will kept in archives for three months.
Help us Ship Girl Scout Cookies to the Marines!
Added March 2, 2008
This is our fourth year shipping Girl Scout Cookies® to the Marines in Iraq and Afghanistan, and this is the biggest shipment ever! We have 1,000 cases of Girl Scout Cookies® (that's 12,000 boxes!) arriving in our warehouse in March. We'll ship these cookies to Marines deployed to Iraq in addition to our regularly scheduled care packages. That means we need to raise 100% of the funds ($10,950) to ship the cookies. We need your help collecting donations.
Click here to learn more...
Click here to donate...
My Miracle Marine, by Connie McClellan
Added February 22, 2008
Connie McClellan is a Marine Parent whose son, John McClellan was injured in combat not once, not twice, but three times. John was dubbed "Lucky" by a Stars in Stripes correspondent after his second gunshot wound sustained in Afghanistan. Connie has written a book that tells the story of the journey her family has taken during this incredible time in their lives.
Click here to read more...
2008 Annual Marine Parents Conference
Added February 11, 2007
The 3rd Annual Marine Parents Conference will be held in the Washington, DC area, April 18-20, 2008 at the beautiful Doubletree Hotel, located across from the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia. The pre-conference will be held April 17-18, 2008.
The Marine Corps is rich in history, and our Nation's Capital is an extraordinary place to celebrate that history. The Pre-Conference All-Day Tour on Friday will take you through years of the Marine Corps, from the amazing National Museum of the Marine Corps, to the famous 8th & I Marine Corps Barracks, Iwo Jima, and an exhibition of our own Marines making history today: the Silent Drill Platoon.
Colonel Matthew Bogdanos, the lead investigator into the looting of Baghdad’s Iraq Museum in 2003, will open a new window of historical perspective for you during the richly illustrated keynote at Saturday's Benefit Dinner. Colonel Bogdanos is a spit-and-polish Marine, a competitive boxer, a classics scholar, and an assistant DA in Manhatton. It is truly an honor to host Colonol Bogdanos as our keynote speaker this year.
General Session topics and speakers on Saturday will include Veterans' Ombudsman Pat Rowe Kerr delivering the morning general session on Veteran's Benefits. Immediately following will be a panel led by Colonel Bryan P. McCoy for the combat deployment session. That afternoon, Dr. Bridget Cantrell will present a discussion panel on Traumatic Stress Injury and Warrior Transitioning.
Purple Heart Marine & Extreme Home Makeover
Added January 25, 2008
The Gilyeat family from Kansas City, KS has received the surprising news that Ty and the gang will build them a new, renovated home in just seven days in a special two-hour episode of "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition," SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 10 (8:00-10:00 p.m., ET) on the ABC Television Network.
NEW! Bigger Flat Rate Box with First-Time Military Discount
Added January 20, 2008
WASHINGTON, DC — The U.S. Postal Service announced today that its Board of Governors approved two new initiatives to grow its shipping business and revenue. A new, larger Priority Mail Flat-Rate Box enables customers to ship 50 percent more than with the current box. It will be offered at a discount to overseas military addresses, a postal first for the armed forces. For full press release from the USPS, see:
USPS Web Site Press Release
Click for PDF Version
Sponsor a Care Package for a Marine
Added November 30, 2007
For $22, you can give the gift of troop support this Christmas season by purchasing a care package sponsorhip for everyone on your gift list!
Through The Care Package Project™, you can sponsor a care package to be sent to a Marine in Iraq on January 5, 2008. Or, purchase a gift sponsorship this holiday season, and we'll send a gift card to your gift recipient letting them know that a care package will be sent on his/her behalf to a Marine in Iraq. Your gift recipient's name will be included in the overseas package.
Purchase a gift sponsor using our secure online interface: MarineParentsInc.com/gift.asp
Christmas Gift Ideas that Give Back
Added November 16, 2007
Christmas is around the corner and it's time to Deck the Halls with Yellow Ribbons in honor of our Troops this holiday season!
The season of giving challenges us to find unique and memorable gifts for our friends and family. MarineParents.com has many gift items available for purchase through several venues and allows your giving to show two-fold generosity: for your loved ones plus giving back to MarineParents.com, Inc. for our many Outreach Programs to support the Marines and their families.
We've provided a selection of the items we offer here on our "Christmas Catalog" page for your shopping ease. You're sure to find gifts to please the Marine Corps enthusiasts on your list!
Thank you for supporting MarineParents.com this holiday season. We appreciate your support! MarineParents.com, Inc. is an IRS approved 501(c)(3) public charity. All proceeds go to MarineParents.com, Inc.
MarineParents.com/shopping/christmas.asp
San Diego Fires
Added October 23, 2007
We have published a page of official and verified information on the San Diego Fires and how that may affect our recruits and Marines at the Marine Corps Recruit Depot (MCRD San Diego) and Camp Pendleton. It's on the RecruitParents.com website. The link follows:
www.RecruitParents.com
Homecoming Travel Nov 1 - Dec 15: Special Offer from SATO and AA
Added October 14, 2007
SATO and American Airlines have a new program up and running for upcoming homecoming events at Camp Pendleton. The part that helps our families the most is this: "The normal change fee is waived--due to a change in the service members arrival date for as many times as necessary through SatoVacations (if the customer calls AA directly there will be a $15 change fee)."
Other bases may take advantage of this program as well. However, they must provide Nancy Oliviero (contact information in document) with their base and airport information so those airports can be added to the contract. At this point, the following airports are included: San Diego (SAN), John Wayne (SNA) and Los Angeles (LAX).
To take advantage of this offer, call toll free 877-698-2554. Read restrictions and parameters in PDF file link below. Feel free to share this information with everyone immediately!
Click here to download a PDF file with full details...
Brand New Yard Signs for Marine Families!
Added October 12, 2007
We've just added YARD SIGNS to our inventory in the online stores. We've got signs to welcome home your Marine, to congratulate your new Marine after graduation, and to announce "The Proud Family of a U.S. Marine". The signs are made of durable vinyl, printed on both sides and come with the metal stakes required to proudly display in your yard! Special introductory price for a limited time. For orders over $50, use coupon code WACKYFENCES to receive $5 off. Coupon expires Oct 13. To order visit our online stores or click here:
www.Cafepress.com/MarineParentInc
VOTE NOW for Purple Heart Marine as Cosmopolitan's Bachelor of the Year, 2007
Added October 9, 2007
Twenty-one year old former Marine Neil Schalk is much more than a “hot bachelor” and the subject of attention for many young women. He is a Purple Heart hero from Muscoda, Wisconsin. He and his family are very involved with Team Marine Parents and Purple Heart Hero Support™. Neil's sister Natalee, has nominated him as Cosmopolitan's Bachelor of the Year, 2007.
Hurry! Voting ends at midnight eastern time October 11. To read more and vote for Wisconsin's Neil Schalk as Cosmopolitan's Bachelor of the Year Click here...
Once a Warrior: Wired for Life
Added September 25, 2007
A new book by Dr. Bridget Cantrell and Chuck Dean. Recommended reading for all families and military personnel who have or will experience deployment to a combat zone.
Click to order...
From the Founder, Tracy Della Vecchia
"The book was beyond my expectations. I finally 'get it'. I finally understand that our sons and daughters will all have a tough time returning to civilian life--they don't have to have PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) or COS (Combat Operational Stress) to have concerns about returning home and adjusting back to a civilian lifestyle. And I understand why now. That knowledge and understanding will help me help other families, and most importantly, help me to help my son."
Click to read more...
New Guidelines for Message Boards
Added September 24, 2007
OpSEC, Privacy and Personal Safety Guidelines for MarineParents.com Message Boards and Chat Rooms
We've updated the guidelines for posting on the message boards. Please review the newly revised guidelines in an easier-to-read format.
Click to read more...
MarineParents.com Website Overhaul!
Added September 20, 2007
We're developing a new look and feel for the web site effective mid-September, 2007. We'll be building and moving sections slowly to bring you a web site that is more user friendly, easier to navigate, and less complex to find what you're looking for. MarineParents.com has grown exponentially over the last few years. We've never done an entire overhaul of the web site and it's past due!
Vote for the Marine Corps Slogan!
Added September 13, 2007
"The Few, The Proud, The Marines," has been nominated as one of the 26 best slogans in the 2007 competition. Winning slogans will be etched on a plaque on Madison Avenue in New York City. Winners announced Sept. 26. Voting through September 24, 2007.
Click to vote or read more...
America's Marines: Parents Around the Natit. 26. Voting through September 24, 2007.
America's Marines: Parents Around the Nation are Invited!
Added September 13, 2007
The Marine Corps will be filming a new commercial in multiple locations across the country over the next two months. The title of the new campaign is "America's Marines," where the objective is to reconnect America with the Marine Corps by showcasing the Corps in communities around the country, and encouraging Americans to interact with Marines on a personal level.
Click to learn more...
Military Spouse Appreciation Day: May 11, 2012
