Who We Are

Cataract City Youth Corps is a group of young people ages 7 - 15 dedicated to living a drug-free lifestyle and learning how to make 'right' choices. We develop self-respect and the principles of teamwork through military style discipline with the emphasis on bringing out the best in everyone - individually as well as from a unit standpoint. We cater specifically to those individuals who for reasons physical, emotional and/or academic would not otherwise adapt to a more formally structured armed forces youth organization.

Cadets will learn among other things; community service, modified drill, physical fitness & the proper care, display and retirement of the flag. The education continues through classroom instruction, guest speakers, field trips and community service projects. In addition, we encourage Cadets to have fun by incorporating activities such as bowling and camping.

Cataract City Youth Corps is not a paramilitary group nor do we recruit for any branch of the Armed Forces. Cadets do not carry weapons or receive any form of combat training. We are not a "scared straight" program for troubled youth; however we will positively re-enforce standards of good behavior and academic achievement expected by any parent, as well as by society.

CCYC will not discriminate or tolerate prejudice on the basis of sex. race, color, creed, religion, economic status and/or educational circumstances.

please note: there is a one-time $50 registration fee to cover the cost of unit tee shirt, hat and contributions to meals.

You may notice this small table here in a place of honor. It is set for one. This table is our way of symbolizing that members of our profession of arms are missing from our midst. They are commonly call P.O.W.'s or M.I.A.'s, we call them brothers.

They are unable to be with us this evening and so we remember them.

This table set for one is small... it symbolizes the frailty of one prisoner against his oppressors.

The table cloth is white... it symbolizes the purity of their intentions to respond to their country's call to arms.

The single rose displayed in a vase reminds us of the families and loved ones of our comrades in arms who keep faith awaiting their return.

The red ribbon tied so prominently on the vase is reminiscent of the red ribbon worn on the lapel and breasts of thousands who bear witness to their unyielding determination to demand a proper accounting for our missing.

A slice of lemon is on the bread plate... to remind us of their bitter fate.

There is salt upon the bread plate... symbolic of the family's tears as they wait.

The glass is inverted... they cannot toast with us tonight.

The chair is empty... they are not here.

Remember... all of you who served with them and called them comrades, who depended on their might and aid, and relied on them... for surely... they have not forsaken you.