About the Navy League of the United States, Orange County Council
In Tustin, California, the Navy League of the United States, Orange County Council was founded in 1964. Our mission is to support our nation's Coast Guard, Merchant, Marine Corps, and Navy through nonpartisan efforts; to educate the public about the national security and humanitarian efforts provided by our Sea Services; and to sup
port youth programs like Naval Sea Cadet Corps, Junior ROTC, and Young Marines that introduce young people to the values of our Sea Services. As a council, we are dedicated to supporting the men and women of the Sea Services and their families. Additionally, we provide support to active-duty Navy and Marine units nearby through "adoption" of ships, installations and units, award programs, financial support, and recognition programs. Our “Challenge Coin,” The John Wayne Connection
John Wayne, one of Orange County's most well-known citizens, had a strong affinity for the country. Wayne, a Newport Beach, California resident, became more than just a well-known actor; he became a timeless icon who represented and shared American principles and values. John Wayne, like the Orange County Navy League, was a civilian who supported the armed forces of the United States. From WWII to Vietnam, he was active in the USO. The two highest civilian medals are the official way that the US government acknowledges Wayne's status as an iconic American. After receiving the Congressional Gold Medal on May 26, 1979, President Jimmy Carter posthumously gave Wayne the Presidential Medal of Freedom on June 9, 1980. Additionally, in 1998, the US Navy Memorial Foundation presented him with the Naval Heritage Award in recognition of his support of the Navy and armed forces throughout his cinematic career. Our Council Challenge Coin features a likeness of John Wayne from the bronze statue "The Duke," created by sculptor Robert Summers. Constructed in 1979, the statue is presently situated at Orange County's John Wayne Airport and honors the late actor as a genuine patriot of the United States. John Wayne, a Citizen in Support of the Sea Services, personified the motto of the Navy League.
