The United States Marine Corps recruiting station in Bozeman has a rich history of community involvement that continues today under the leadership of Staff Sergeant Andrew Hoopii.
The Marine Toys for Tots Foundation distributed over 20.2 million toys, books, and games to over 7.3 million less fortunate children in 2020. Bozeman saw 2,652 toys distributed with 357 children supported last year as a result of this effort. If you want to contribute to the 2021 campaign, please drop your new toys only at the National Guard recruiting station in the Gallatin Valley Mall.
The USMC recruiting station is actively involved with True Spirit CrossFit & Yoga of Bozeman. Twice a week, Sergeant Hoopii and his future Marines prepare physically and mentally for Marine recruit training. Leslie Allen is the CEO and head coach at True Spirit CrossFit & Yoga. She served five years active duty in the Marine Corps as an aircraft firefighting and rescue specialist. Leslie is a US Masters Olympic Weightlifting competitor and the 2019 Pan American and World Masters Champion in her age and weight class. She holds National and Pan American records, and she is the Montana State Champion and record setter in her division.
Sergeant Hoopii is also a member of the Gallatin Valley Marine Corps League. This fraternity of Marines and their families (FMF) serve Marines, FMF Corpsmen, and FMF Chaplains who have worn the Eagle, Globe, and Anchor. The group serves as a support system for each other to help Marines integrate into civilian life and to better serve their community.
Sergeant Hoopii supported the Operation September Freedom event in Bozeman on August 15th. Operation September Freedom is the first and only Dream Flight Tour dedicated to honoring the men and women who fought in WWII. Veterans were flown from Gallatin Valley Regional Airport in a restored Stearman aircraft.
The USMC recruiting station in Bozeman has been and will continue to be an active part of the Bozeman community. Not only do they support local children in need, they also support our veterans, active duty Marines, and future recruits in living their best life for themselves and for Bozeman.
