+1 908-824-0146 INFO@HCMCL.ORG

Join the Hunterdon County Bulldogs Marine Corps League Detachment

Become Part of the Marine Corps Brotherhood—Right Here at Home

Whether you’re a Marine, FMF Navy Corpsman, or a patriotic supporter, becoming a member of the Marine Corps League means continuing a proud tradition of service, camaraderie, and community.

To join the Marine Corps League as a regular member, you must have served in the United States Marine Corps or as a FMF Navy personnel for more than 90 days, and the character of your service has been honorable, and if discharged, you are in receipt of an honorable discharge, and be willing to provide proof of service upon request.

To become an Associate Member of the Marine Corps League, you must support the aims and ideals of the Marine Corps League. Dues for Associate Members are the same as that of a Regular Member.

Why Join a Marine Corps League?

Joining the Marine Corps League (MCL) offers a number of meaningful benefits, especially for current or former U.S. Marines and FMF (Fleet Marine Force) Navy Corpsmen. Click the sections below for compelling reasons to consider joining.

Camaraderie and Brotherhood

  • Stay connected with fellow Marines and FMF Corpsmen.

  • Maintain that sense of esprit de corps and Marine identity after active service.

  • Participate in events, meetings, and ceremonies that reinforce Marine values.

Continued Service

  • The League provides opportunities to serve the community, veterans, and active-duty personnel.

  • Get involved with Toys for Tots, honor guards, funeral details, scholarships, and VA hospital visits.

  • You’re no longer in uniform, but you can still make a difference.

Advocacy and Support

  • The MCL is a national voice advocating for Marines and veterans’ issues.

  • Assistance with navigating VA benefits, disability claims, and legal concerns.

  • Help fellow veterans in times of need through peer support or League programs.

Leadership and Personal Development

  • Take on leadership roles at the detachment (local), department (state), or national level.

  • Organize community events, lead projects, or mentor younger veterans.

  • Sharpen organizational and communication skills in a Marine-centric environment.

Honor and Tradition

  • Help preserve and promote the proud legacy and history of the United States Marine Corps.

  • Participate in patriotic events, color guards, parades, and memorial services.

Family and Social Opportunities

  • Many detachments are family-friendly, including spouses and children in events.

  • Enjoy Marine Corps Birthday Balls, fundraisers, barbecues, and reunions.

Sense of Purpose

  • Transitioning from active duty can leave a void—MCL fills it with mission, structure, and meaning.

  • It’s a way to continue to live the motto: Semper Fidelis.

How to Apply

Step 1: Complete the Application
Download and print the Membership Application Form, fill it out, and return it with your supporting documents.

Step 2: Submit Your Application One of Three Ways:

  • By Mail:
    Send the completed application, a copy of your DD214 or discharge certificate, and membership fees to:
    Hunterdon County Bulldogs Detachment #927
    PO Box 2222
    Flemington, NJ 08822

  • By Email:
    Scan and send your documents to: info@hcmcl.org

  • In Person:
    Prefer not to mail or email your discharge papers? No problem. Just send in your application and bring your documents to our next meeting. Active duty? Bring your current military ID with you.
    Not in the area right now? Contact us—we’ll make it work.

Required Supporting Documents

For Regular Membership (Former or Active Duty U.S. Marines or FMF Navy Personnel):

You must submit proof of honorable service in the U.S. Marine Corps or as a Fleet Marine Force Navy Corpsman or Chaplain.

Acceptable documents:

  • DD-214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty)

    • Must show:

      • Character of service (e.g., Honorable Discharge)

      • Marine Corps or FMF service

    • Active Duty Military ID (for currently serving Marines or FMF Corpsmen)

    • Discharge Certificate (with proof of honorable service if DD-214 is not available)

    For Associate Membership (Non-Marines Supporting the MCL Mission):

    • No military service documents are required.

    • You must be sponsored by a regular member in good standing and approved by the detachment.

    Membership Fees

    We proudly support our local community by offering free first-year membership to all Hunterdon County residents.

    Active Duty Members

    • 1st Year (Hunterdon County Residents): FREE

    • Annual Renewal: $15

    Veterans, Retirees & Associates

    • 1st Year (Hunterdon County Residents): FREE

    • Annual Renewal: $34

    • Non-Residents (1st Year & Renewal): $34

    📅 Renewals are due each August, regardless of when you join.
    Example: Join in May? Renewal is still due in August.
    Join after July 1st? Your next renewal is the following August.

    Lifetime Membership (One-Time Payment)

    Enjoy the benefits of membership—forever. Once you become a Life Member, you’ll never pay annual dues again.

    The only requirements are:

    • You must be a Regular Member in good standing (i.e., your annual dues are current).

    • You must pay the one-time Life Membership fee, which is based on your age.

    Age Range Lifetime Fee
    35 & under $1,000
    36–50 years $800
    51–64 years $600
    65–84 years $400
    85+ years $100

    Ready to Join?

    Download the application and take the next step in continuing the legacy.
    Questions? Contact us at info@hcmcl.org