On Aug. 12, 10 youth from Northern Nevada ranging in age from 14-16 completed the 2006 Devil Pups encampment at Marine Corps Base at Camp Pendleton, Calif.
After 10 days training, each cadet was presented with a physical fitness achievement and citizenship award, during a military-style graduation and pass-in-review.
This year's Devil Pups were Zack Mapes, Kyle Paradise, Robert Avila, Taylor Fugate, Joe Benavidez and Luke Bullis of Carson City; Sara Mangiaracina of Minden; Steven Carranza of Dayton; and Dough Thomas and Cameron Badal of Reno.
Mangiaracina also earned an additional award for outstanding physical achievement, scoring all 400 possible points on her physical fitness test.
The cost to attend an encampment was approximately $400, but due to generous donations from community members and organizations, participants had no cost to attend.
This year's encampment was made possible thanks to the Battle Born and High Desert Detachments of the Marine Corps League; the Department of Nevada Marine Corps League; the Northern Nevada Devil Dogs; Mac McLeod; Richard and Bonnie Sanborn; James and Gailon Bell; Tony Klein; Mark and Laura Brewer; Thomas Unruh, DDS; RE/MAX Realty Affiliates; 1st Sgt. Al Fragione; Gunnery Sgt. Gene Ewing; Brian and Skip Carrica (of Fallon Glass); Ken and Marietta Alexander; Bill Clark; George and Lee Shaffer; Chip and Pam Kramer and Ethel Hutchings.
Transportation was provided by Ruth Canfield and Linda Class, and the vehicles were driven by 1st Sgt. Bob Roach and Eric Class.
Sgt. Maj. Wayne Baker and Tony Klein served as screeners and testers.