Department of Oregon Marine Corps League

The Marine Corps League is a veterans’ organization founded in 1923 that promotes the interests and traditions of the U.S. Marine Corps through local community-based detachments and is the only congressionally chartered Marine Corps-related veterans organization. Its members include active, Reserve, and honorably discharged Marines, as well as qualified Navy FMF Corpsmen and Chaplains. The League’s activities include providing support and advocacy for members and their families, running programs like Toys for Tots, and upholding the ideals of Americanism 

Mission and purpose

  • Promotes the Marine Corps: It works to promote the interests and preserve the traditions of the United States Marine Corps.
  • Supports Marines and their families: The League supports active, retired, and veteran Marines and their families, including FMF Corpsmen and Chaplains.
  • Upholds Americanism: It fosters ideals of Americanism and patriotic volunteerism.
  • Fosters camaraderie: It strengthens the bond of fraternity among Marines. 

Membership

  • The organization is open to honorably discharged, retired, and active-duty Marines.
  • It also includes qualified FMF Corpsmen and FMF Chaplains with 90 days or more of service. 

Programs and activities

  • Veteran advocacy: Provides support to ensure members receive their deserved VA benefits and assistance with transitions.
  • Community outreach: Includes programs like Toys for Tots and care packages for deployed Marines.
  • Historic preservation: Observes and commemorates historical occasions important to the Marine Corps and promotes its history and traditions.
  • Mentorship: Offers guidance and mentorship to fellow Marines.
  • Young Marines: Supports youth programs that promote character development through a Marine-oriented program. 

Structure

  • National organization: Headed by an elected National Commandant and a National Board of Trustees.
  • Local detachments: The national organization coordinates with over 900 community-based detachments across the country and overseas.
  • Legal status: It is a not-for-profit organization that is federally chartered and recognized by the IRS.