Orting, Washington. (June 8, 2024): The U.S. Marines have extended “honorary” status to its youngest recipient, a four-year-old boy battling bravely against cancer. In this photo by Staff Sergeant Courtney White, Arlan Russell, accompanied by this parents Josh, a Marine Corps veteran, and mom Carrie, pose for a photograph with a Marine Corps color guard at the conclusion of his Honorary Marine ceremony here. The title of “Honorary Marine” is bestowed by the Commandant of the Marine Corps to civilians who have made extraordinary contributions to the Marines.

According to Staff Sergeant Courtney White, little Arlan was born with a Mitochondrial disease that affects his heart, liver, brain, muscles, and bones. He was not expected to live past his first year, but his condition improved over time due to medication and IV therapy.  Unfortunately, in 2023, his condition worsened, and doctors found inoperable tumors on his liver. There is no safe treatment for his liver cancer, making his illness terminal.

The Honorary Marine program began in 1992 and 24 children have been named Honorary Marines to date. Other famous recipients of the honor are martial arts expert Chuck Norris, actor Gary Sinise (Lieutenant Dan), and entertainer Bob Hope. The program began in 1992 and is intended to strengthen the bond between the American people and the Marine Corps.