Navy League of the United States :: Glenview Illinois Council

YOUNG MARINE SAVES FRIEND'S LIFE

The U.S. Navy League Glenview Council, Glenview, IL adopted the Chicago's Own Young Marines unit several years ago. The unit is located in River Grove, IL, and is proud to be a part of the nation's premiere award-winning program for boys and girls age eight through high school.

A new cadet, Private Christian Alba, saved a friend at a local carnival. Col William P. Davis, USMC, National Executive Director, presented Christian "The Live Saving Award, 2nd Degree".

The Citation Tells The Story

On Sunday, May 28, 2025, Young Marine Private Christian Alba of Chicago's Own Young Marines was with family and friends at the St. Frances Borgia Fair in Chicago, IL. YM/PVT Alba went on a ride called the "Orbiter" with a friend who is smaller in stature than Christian.

While the ride began to rotate, and the passenger cars began to spin, the restraining arm used to restrain passengers wasn't adequate to hold his friend within the rotating car. As the ride began to go faster, it was apparent his friend was unable to remain in the car and was sliding out of the seat. YM/PVT Alba immediately reacted by grabbing ahold of his friend with one free arm and began yelling to observers, family, and the ride attendant for help. YM/PVT Alba maintained a hold of his friend while the ride continued to spin and took a few minutes to come to a complete stop.

YM/PVT Alba took action which saved his friend from serious injury or death from falling out of the car in the ride's control arms, ride base and pavement at a high rate of speed.

Through his courage, YM/PVT Christian Alba's actions reflect great credit upon himself, his training and is in keeping with the finest traditions of the Young Marines program.

The thankful mother of the rescued child said "Christian is such an amazing leader; brave, caring, thoughtful, and would make an amazing first responder one day and he was so brave and I'm so grateful that he was there."

For his meritorious service, the National Executive Director promoted Christian to the rank of Private First Class.

The training of the Young Marines program proves the value of building leadership, life skills and instilling courage in America's youth. The Glenview Council is proud to be sponsoring Chicago's Own Young Marines and helping the Cadets become productive members of our society.