Unit History & Mission
Our Story
First City Rifle Corps is a Military Explorer Post in the 501(c)(3) non-profit Learning for Life Corporation, an affiliate of the Boy Scouts of America.
In May 1985, FCRC was created by Captain Andre Coloumbe and Master Sergeant Terry Lee as a Boy Scouts of America Military Explorer Post. Post 124 was initially sponsored by the 1/144 Field Artillery California National Guard unit in Van Nuys, California, and later by the Air National Guard in Van Nuys.
The mission of FCRC is to produce competent small-unit leaders who are confident they can lead and overcome all obstacles to accomplish the mission — while motivating young people to be better citizens, students, and Americans.
Training That Prepares You for Life
Training is in line with subjects individual soldiers are taught to round out their skills. Collective training teaches individuals to work together as a team to accomplish specific goals. It prepares members for military training, if they desire — and for life as an adult.
FCRC conducts training with the California National Guard and the Army Reserve at locations such as Camp Pendleton Marine Corps Base and Camp Roberts. At the military bases, riflemen are taught marksmanship and qualify with a military weapon, with weapons safety as the main emphasis.
Unit Beret Flash
The beret signifies the individual's completion and acknowledgment of their skills. The black beret is worn by Recondos; the maroon beret is worn by our Airborne troopers. Today the flash represents each individual's involvement in our special elite programs.
Our Values
- Honor — Riflemen, adult cadre, and alumni use FCRC as a means to support the local community.
- Integrity — Doing the right thing is often hard, but integrity is a life skill nurtured at FCRC.
- Selfless Service — Sacrifice and helping others is key to working as a unit and accomplishing anything great.