One day after celebrating the Marine Corps’ 244^th birthday, a few Marines from Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany celebrated Veterans Day with the local community, Nov. 11.

Sgt. Maj. Jeffrey Young, sergeant major, MCLB Albany, was the guest speaker at the American Legion Post 512.  He told the near-capacity crowd that he was honored to be given the opportunity to share his perspective on the importance of the day.

“You’ve impacted generations of service members who continue to build upon the great legacy that you’ve cemented in American History,” he said.  “It doesn’t matter what branch you served in or how long you served, this day is dedicated to all of you.” 

Young told the audience in order to keep our American Flag hoisted above the landscape, it takes personal commitment, loyal dedication, esprit de corps, strength, honor and discipline.

“All of these are qualities that define the essence of an American citizen who so willingly accepts the responsibility to defend and deter any forms of aggression towards this nation,” he continued.

Another Marine, Gunnery Sgt. Billy Serpas, company first sergeant, MCLB Albany, volunteered on Nov. 11 to read to students at Lee County Primary School in Leesburg, Ga.

“When the school requested Marines to volunteer to read to students and talk to them about our service to this nation, I wanted to volunteer,” Serpas said.  “I read to a class of first grade students, greeted them as they arrived at school that morning and engaged with them as they asked very interesting questions about my service.”

Serpas concluded that he loves to talk to and mentor children as often as he can and believes it is important to volunteer to influence others as a positive role model.