WASHINGTON - Marines are renowned for their toughness, but some of the Corps' finest have been showing their softer sides as volunteers with The Salvation Army - National Capital Area Command Grate Patrol homeless outreach program.
A group of Headquarters and Service Battalion, Headquarters Marine Corps Henderson Hall Marines have volunteered with the program, which brings an evening meal to those who call the streets of Washington home, for approximately seven months.
Sgt. William M. Brown, who helps coordinate Marine volunteers for the program, explained that another Marine suggested the battalion's motor transportation pit volunteer for a community event around last year's Thanksgiving holiday.
"The Marines enjoyed it so much that, by word of mouth, the volunteer event spread around the base," he continued. "The battalion now supports The Salvation Army Grate Patrol twice a month."
Begun 20 years ago, the Grate Patrol operates 365 days a year and serves approximately 100 to 150 meals each evening to more than 3,000 people each month, according to The Salvation Army.
The Grate Patrol is currently staffed by a Salvation Army driver, an outreach worker, volunteers from Henderson Hall and 23 other area organizations. Food is purchased and prepared by the volunteer groups.
The volunteers are picked up by The Salvation Army driver, who drives them to distribution routes around Washington. On a recent night in late June, the Henderson Hall Marines were assigned to an area around the National Mall. At their first stop on Constitution Avenue, the Marines exchanged smiles, handshakes and conversation with those they served.
"Thanks, man," one gentleman said as he accepted a bottle of cold water and sandwich from a Marine volunteer.
Clothes and blankets are also handed out if available.
"The thing I took away from the Grate Patrol is how the homeless of D.C. are so appreciative of a small bowl of food and friendly conversation," said Brown. "The thing I will remember most from Grate Patrol is working with my fellow Marines helping our community."
Henderson Hall Marines are volunteering for the program July 23 beginning at 5:30 p.m. Contact Brown at 703-693-8536 if you would like to volunteer.
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