Congratulations to 2017 Veteran of the Year for the 68th Assembly District, our very own Douglas Marquis! Douglas was selected by Assemblyman Steven S. Choi, and was honored at the Annual Veterans Recognition by the California State Assembly. Douglas’ proud mother and father were welcomed at the ceremony as well.
I have known Douglas through his service to the Rescue Mission for several years now, and I am encouraged by his heart to care for others. On Tuesday evenings you can find him leading Mentor Up, a program that serves the young boys that live at the Village of Hope. Douglas and the other mentors provide them with the guidance and support of an older male role model, something many of these young boys are lacking.
Douglas served ten years as an Active Duty Marine and now uses that experience to care for other veterans in need. Over a year ago Douglas added another volunteer role with Orange County Rescue Mission to uniquely serve his fellow veterans who are working towards restoration and self-sufficiency.
He moved into the Tustin Veterans Outpost as the Resident Advisor. He now provides on-site availability to support the veterans, is a positive role model and mentor for veterans and assists with facility maintenance. Douglas is an amazing example of living out his ministry in his day-to-day life as he lives alongside these veterans and shares a home and community with them.
Douglas shares, “I have served in the FSSG, MLG, Air Wing, and best of all 1st Marine Division. I have traveled the world in peace keeping and combat operations. My career had a lot of ups and downs, but I would do it all over again in a heartbeat. It is a rare and unique opportunity to serve (other) veterans, and give back to Orange County Rescue Mission.”
Douglas, congratulations on the honor of being chosen as 2017 Veteran of the Year for the 68th Assembly District! The Rescue Mission is proud and honored to call you a friend.
