YORBA LINDA, Calif. -- Communities near military installations have a unique perspective on the lifestyle service members and their families live. They are an integral part of the support system that is essential to maintaining an efficient force. The community of Yorba Linda, California, solidified their support by adopting the I Marine Expeditionary Force's 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit.
The Yorba Linda City Council formally adopted the 11th MEU on Dec. 16, 2014. The adoption represents the constant support the city provides to service members and their families when the unit is both deployed and at home, and it maintains a constant link between Yorba Linda and the military community.
Dignitaries and members of the community, along with Marines, Sailors and families of the 11th MEU, gathered in Yorba Linda, May 16, 2015, to witness the first annual adoption ceremony, which honored the traditions and history of the unit.
Tom Lindsey, Yorba Linda city mayor pro tem, said adopting the 11th MEU has been one of the proudest moments he has experienced while serving as a city official.
“It’s a tremendous honor to have the Marines and Sailors here among us and we wish to thank them all for their service in the defense of our great nation,” said Lindsey. “We are extremely grateful to have this fantastic opportunity to support the 11th MEU and its families, and we hope this is the beginning of a very long-lasting bond between us.”
By adopting the unit, the City of Yorba Linda now plays an imperative supportive role in the MEU’s mission.
“I am confident that adopting the 11th MEU will be a unique treat for the city, as our deployments take us literally around the world and you are, by extension, a part of that journey,” said Col. Matthew Trollinger, 11th MEU commanding officer.
Trollinger added that the commitment is mutual and that the 11th MEU is not only being adopted by the city, but the city is also being adopted by the unit.
“For the MEU to be adopted by the city of Yorba Linda is an opportunity to forge a lasting relationship between the nearest and dearest of the city, and the generations of Marines to pass through the 11th MEU,” added Trollinger.
During the event, Marines and Sailors showcased some of the MEU’s capabilities, including vehicles, equipment, weapon systems, and the men and women who make up a small portion of the unit.
The 11th MEU returned from a seven-month deployment in February where they participated in military exercises and operations across the Asia-Pacific region, employed their amphibious capabilities, honed fundamental skills, and worked alongside armed forces from foreign nations to create stronger international ties.
Marines, Sailors and family members left Yorba Linda with new friends in a community that is eager to support the 11th MEU and be part of the unit’s next mission.
“On behalf of the Marines and sailors currently with the MEU, and for those to come who will enjoy the fruits of our budding relationship … thank you,” said Trollinger. “Thank you for your support, your encouragement, and your warm welcome to beautiful Yorba Linda.”