05/29/2026
As the Crump family prepares to relocate, we reflect on the past six years with the Albany Young Marines filled with gratitude, pride, and appreciation for the journey we have shared together.
What began as an opportunity to serve quickly became something much more meaningful to our family. Over the years, we had the privilege of not only helping lead and grow this program, but also watching our own children grow within it as Young Marines and leaders themselves. This program became part of our family’s life, and the experiences, friendships, challenges, and accomplishments we shared through it will always hold a special place in our hearts.
One of the most rewarding parts of this journey has been helping build connections between young people and our community through service. We have always believed leadership is best taught through action — through respect, accountability, discipline, sacrifice, and commitment to something greater than yourself.
To our Young Marines — thank you. Thank you for your hard work, your growth, your dedication, and the memories you have given us over the years. Watching many of you mature into confident young leaders has been one of the greatest rewards of our time in this program. We encourage each of you to continue striving to do your best in everything you pursue. The lessons learned here can stay with you for a lifetime if you choose to embrace them fully.
To the volunteers and adult leaders who continue to support this unit, thank you for stepping forward to serve. Programs like this only survive because people are willing to dedicate their time, energy, and hearts to the next generation. Your efforts matter, even when the work is difficult or goes unseen.
We also want to sincerely thank the Young Marines National Headquarters and leadership for their trust, guidance, and recognition of what our unit accomplished over the years. We are grateful for the opportunities provided to our Young Marines to participate in national and regional events and experiences that broadened their horizons, and strengthened their leadership.
We also want to sincerely thank all of the parents, families, supporters, veterans, and community members who stood behind this program over the years. Every event, every accomplishment, every community service project, and every opportunity provided to these youth was made possible because of your support and encouragement. We could not have accomplished what we did without you.
We especially ask everyone to continue honoring and remembering our veterans. Their sacrifices and continued support for programs like the Young Marines serve as a constant reminder of the importance of service, citizenship, and leadership.
While this chapter is coming to a close for our family, we leave proud of what this unit has accomplished and hopeful for its future. Serving alongside all of you has truly been an honor.
Although we may be stepping away from leadership, we will always be cheering on the Albany Young Marines and will forever be proud to have been part of this journey together.
Thank you for the trust, the friendships, the support, and the memories.
Semper Fidelis,
The Crump Family
American Legion Post 30 Albany GA
Marine Corps League Albany GA 1260
Albany Area Chamber of Commerce
The City of Albany
Albany GA Elks Lodge 713
Albany State University
Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany
Albany Ga Police Department
VFW Post 2785 - Albany GA
Albany Area YMCA
2nd Young Marine Division
2nd Young Marine Division
Marine Corps League Department of Georgia
