Andre C. Wood has been a stalwart of the USS Oregon Detachment since his transfer from the Rogue Valley Detachment. He runs the Detachment’s bottle/can account, flag drop, Detachment picnic all while serving as the Jr. Vice Commandant for both the Department and the Detachment.

Cynthia Cobb, Crater Lake Detachment, is always willing to lend her time and talent. Cynthia runs the Detachment’s 50/50 raffles, assists with silent auctions and registration at the various meetings and events hosted annually.

It was a record year for the 2023 Oregon Toys for Tots Campaign.

With the help of the Oregon MCL detachments, Oregon increased the number of toys donated by more than 27,000 toys.

The state’s 10 Detachments helped collect 176,109 toys, supporting 85,963 children.

Nationally, in 2023, the Marine Toys for Tots organization achieved a remarkable milestone by distributing nearly 25 million toys, books, and other gifts to over 10 million children in need.

This record-breaking effort represents the largest number of donations in the organization’s 77-year history. While the holiday season has traditionally been the driving force behind Toys for Tots, the organization has expanded its impact to provide support year-round. These toys and items are donated to children in financially disadvantaged situations and households across the United States. The Marine Toys for Tots Foundation continues to be a strong force for good, ensuring that children growing up in poverty receive the care and support they deserve. To learn more about this impactful program or get involved, visit the Toys for Tots website

Nine Marine Corps League Oregon Detachments achieved 100 percent or more in membership growth in 2022-2023.

According to Commandant Benjamin Quen, it was these efforts that resulted in the Department of Oregon receiving a Second-Place award from MCL National.  Overall, the Department grew at a rate of 114.83 percent.  This growth also propelled the NW Division to a Second-Place award as well.

Quen offers his “congratulations to those detachments for achieving such a great recognition.”

Of the 9 Detachments, two received National Awards:

• Coquille River Detachment #1042 – 316.67.93% – Received National 2nd Place Plaque (Detachment Size 15-50), Certificate and 100% Ribbon
• George C Leber Detachment #1481 – 269.23% – Received National 3^rd Place Plaque (Detachment Size 15-50), Certificate and 100% Ribbon

The remaining will receive certificates and a 100 percent growth ribbon:

• Rogue Valley Detachment #386 – 128.30%
• Calvin E Murphy Detachment #578 – 128.13%
• USS Oregon Detachment #470 – 112.07%
• Emerald Empire Detachment #917 – 109.68%
• Central Oregon Detachment #1308 – 107.41%
• Daniel E Crockett Detachment #1228 – 103.70%
• Crater Lake Detachment #373 – 102.93%

Sarah Callen, Oregon Department Sergeant at Arms, was recently honored for her continuous display of exemplary volunteerism and her ready support of her fellow veterans and the community of Klamath Falls with the presentation of a flag flown over the U.S. Capitol. Callen is a member and officer of Crater Lake Detachment #373.

The flag and award were presented at the request of the Honorable Cliff Bentz, Oregon’s Second District representative of Congress. The award was presented to Callen at the Veteran’s Advisory Board meeting, where Callen serves as the Marine Corps League representative, by Wyndess James, the veteran liaison for Congressman Bentz.

Specifically, Callen was recognized for her involvement with the Marine Corps League, Mission 22, the Veterans Advisory Council, the Non-Commissioned Officers Association, Toys for Tots, Marine Corps League Scholarship Foundation, WWII Memorial restorations and many other service groups.

Callen also provides holiday meals to elderly, homeless veterans and active duty servicemembers who are not able to provide for their families.