Buffalo Ridge Young Marines recognizes several members

The Buffalo Ridge Young Marines announce the graduation of YM/PVT Anabel Stringfellow of Worthington and YM/PVT Devon Stenberg of Windom from Recruit Training on March 21. Both successfully completed all requirements of the Young Marines Recruit Training Program.

To earn the title of Young Marine, recruits must complete a minimum of 26 hours of training and demonstrate proficiency in all Recruit Guidebook objectives. These include leadership development, teamwork, close order drill, physical fitness, drug demand reduction education, military customs and courtesies, and the core values of leadership, teamwork and discipline.

YM/1stSgt Brooklynn Tyrrell and YM/GySgt Marlee Mitchell, both of Fulda, received the Meritorious Service Award for teaching close order drill to adult volunteers of Division 3 at the Division 3 Adult Volunteer Training held in St. Louis, Missouri, last September.

Additionally, Tyrrell, Mitchell, YM/SSgt Ben Marquardt of Worthington and YM/Sgt Allen Ahrens of Slayton received the Merit of Commendation Award for their service as a color guard at the 2025 Elks State Convention in Breezy Point last October. During the event, they also shared how the Young Marines program has positively impacted their lives.

Promotions were awarded to Young Marine Jackson Marquardt of Worthington, who advanced to YM/Cpl, and Damion Nelson of Worthington, who advanced to YM/LCpl.

YM/LCpl Remington Seachris of Hills received the Personal Achievement Award in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the unit and his consistent ability to lead by example. His dedication, work ethic and character set a high standard for his peers.

The following Young Marines were awarded the Good Conduct Ribbon: Tyrrell, Mitchell, Ben Marquardt, Ahrens, YM/Sgt Jury Star, Jackson Marquardt, and YM/LCpl John Spartz. This award is earned every two years by maintaining good standing and consistently meeting program expectations.

The Young Marines is a national youth organization for boys and girls ages 8 through high school graduation. The program emphasizes leadership, teamwork, discipline, physical fitness, drug-free living, and community service, while fostering respect for veterans and the United States Armed Forces. Its mission is to develop confident, responsible young citizens committed to serving their communities.

The Buffalo Ridge Young Marines unit is currently accepting new members. Families interested in learning more about the program are encouraged to contact Unit Commander Dan Harrington at 507-360-7472 or via email at buffaloridge@youngmarines.or g