Waynesville, Mo. – The Young Marines program in Pulaski County continues to shape the next generation of responsible citizens. Founded in 2005 by retired U.S. Marine Steve Nutter, the unit serves youth from age eight through high school, offering a structured environment that emphasizes self‑confidence, physical fitness and civic duty.
Leadership rooted in service
Steve Nutter, the unit commander, describes the experience as “a rewarding adventure.” He stresses that the program is not a recruiting tool for the Marine Corps but a foundation for future leaders. “The kids build self‑confidence,” Nutter says. “They are involved in all kinds of civic activities. They have a physical fitness program.”
Active‑duty Marine Corporal Assitan Sylla, stationed at the Fort Leonard Wood detachment, volunteers regularly and adds, “I think this is an amazing program. They need discipline, a mind of their own to think, and a community they can give back to.”
Kids speak about the impact
Eleven‑year‑old Pvt. Bridgette Rutter, a member of the Young Marines, says the program has helped her “a lot” as she prepares for adulthood. Her older sister, 15‑year‑old Lance Cpl. Brianna Rutter, echoes the sentiment, noting that the unit’s service projects range from local memorial ceremonies to national veteran‑honoring events.
One memorable service moment involved a woman who asked the Young Marines to visit her husband’s grave at the Veterans’ Wall. “Because she said she didn’t know if she could make the trip because of her old age, per se,” Brianna recalls, “so now every year when we get the chance to go to that wall, we go see her husband.”
Beyond the county: learning from history
Earlier this year the unit traveled to Arizona to deepen its understanding of military heritage. Nutter explains, “It’s vitally important for them to get a first‑hand, actual hands‑on view of history and how our veterans and the Code Talkers specifically played the part.” The Young Marines met descendants of the Navajo Code Talkers, whose native language helped secure Allied communications in World War II.
“When we met the descendants of Navajo code talkers, it was very enlightening to hear their stories and recount their relatives’ stories as well,” Brianna said. “And also learn about the history of the Navajo people and the significance of Window Rock to their culture.”
Community service at home
Locally, the Young Marines participate in Wreaths Across America, Memorial Day ceremonies, flag‑laying at Marine graves and other veteran‑focused events. Their presence reinforces the values of patriotism, discipline and service that strengthen families and neighborhoods.
“People that clear the path so you can be standing where you are,” Corporal Sylla notes, “and even as adults, we do need to look at that as well.” The unit’s philosophy is to expose youth to both local and broader service opportunities, fostering a sense of responsibility that extends beyond the classroom.
How to get involved
Parents interested in enrolling their children can contact unit commander Steve Nutter at [email protected]. The program welcomes volunteers of all ages who wish to support the development of disciplined, community‑oriented youth.
Original reporting: KY3 Springfield (local) — read the source article.
