Commandant Justin Eldridge was named Marine of the Year 2010 by a Awards Committee of the Thames River Detachment of the Marine Corps League. He was presented is awards by Mr. James Reid, Committee Chairperson. He was issued his Detachment Ribbon,  Detachment Plaque, and a Marine Corps Sword. He was nominated because of the drive in showed in getting this detachment off the ground and getting to where it is today. The Committee could not think of a better person to give this award to.