Parris Island -- The Tri-Command Single Marines & Sailors Program not only improves Marines’ quality of life, it gives them a chance to improve the quality of life for their surrounding communities. Members from Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island and Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort chose to volunteer by picking up trash on the highways that run through Beaufort County.
“Sometimes, I see them when I’m patrolling in the Port Royal area picking up trash without anyone telling them,” said Edgar Jansons, Port Royal Police Department codes enforcement officer. “To me, that is dedication.”
Their efforts haven’t gone unnoticed.
The South Carolina Litter Control Association recognized the program with the Senator David Thomas Award Feb. 23, 2017, in Myrtle Beach, S.C., by. The award recognizes individuals or groups throughout South Carolina for their dedication to keeping their communities clean.
“I don’t even need to say ‘I need help,’” Jansons said. “Most of the time, I get phone calls from them asking where they can help.”
Parris Island’s 40 or so graduations each year bring tens of thousands of visitors to the local area, but one downside to that influx of people is the associated influx of litter, a problem the program members help to offset.
“Hopefully, next year, the SMP members would be recognized nationally,” said Jansons. “I am going to push for that. That is my goal.”
This is the first time the state of South Carolina has recognized any military branch in their clean-up efforts, according to Sherry E. Jenkins, secretary treasurer for the South Carolina Litter Control Association.
“I prefer to make my time useful,” said Lance Cpl. Jaen Chavez, an aviation operation specialist at Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort. “It feels like I’m at peace when I know I’ve done something good.”
At Parris Island, recruits learn to pick up after themselves and leave a place better than they found it. Marines carry this principle with them long after they leave recruit training.
“Parris Island makes Marines dedicated to a life of selfless service,” said Sgt. Maj. Rafael Rodriguez, sergeant major for Parris Island and the Eastern Recruiting Region. “I’m proud of our Marines as they continue to demonstrate those values by giving back to their local community.”