The United States Marine Corps will mark its 250th anniversary on Monday, Nov. 10, honoring a legacy of service and sacrifice that spans centuries and continents.

Here in Fountain Hills, local veterans of the Cpl. Phil Yin Marine Corps League Detachment #1439 are preparing to commemorate the milestone  while extending an open invitation to former Marines and their families living in the community.

The detachment, named in honor of Cpl. Phil Yin, serves as a support network for Marines who have returned home, many carrying the scars of combat and the weight of service. Members meet monthly to strengthen camaraderie, assist fellow veterans and support numerous community initiatives and national causes.

“We recently discovered that many former Marines in Fountain Hills didn’t know our detachment existed,” said Adjutant Chris Brant. “We want them to know there’s a place for them here.”

The group meets as guests of American Legion Post #58, 16837 East Parkview Avenue, on the first Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m., welcoming all Marines, active and retired, along with their families. Those interested in learning more or attending a meeting can contact Brant at chrisppbrant@gmail.com.

Community presence at Fall Art Festival

The Detachment funds its activities through memberships, donations and bi-annual fundraising events. Each year, the Marines are invited by local businesses to host informational tables during the Fountain Hills Festival of Fine Arts and Crafts, taking place this year Nov. 14–16, just days after the Corps’ official birthday on Nov. 10.

While stationed outside participating businesses, members do not sell items or ask for money. Instead, they engage with passersby, answer questions about Marine Corps history and distribute Marine Corps lapel roses, a symbol of remembrance honoring the Marines who gave their lives at Belleau Wood in 1917.

Toys for Tots expands to 60 local collection boxes

As the holiday season approaches, the Detachment is also spearheading its annual Toys for Tots campaign. What began with just four donation boxes several years ago under the leadership of Commandant Dave Nelson has now expanded to more than 60 collection sites across Fountain Hills.

Residents are encouraged to drop off new, unwrapped toys in the collection boxes placed throughout town from now through December, continuing the community’s tradition of generosity toward children in need.

For more information, visit deptazmcl.org/fountain-hills-detachment-1439.