What Lowcrawl Hugs (nonprofit) does for Marines on family day who don’t have visitors - MCRD San Diego, CA
John and Angie Noveras - founders of Lowcrawl Hugs Limited
**Disclaimer ** I am not affiliated or contracted by the Military/MCRD. By hiring me prior to your event, I am your guest and there to capture your family for personal use. One or more person in every photo has an active photo release to Morning Owl Fine Art Photography or is a general overview photo that has been contracted to be taken for personal use.
I messaged John Noveras the other week after seeing his posts in the MCRD Families and Friends group about the Lowcrawl Hugs Limited and free mom hugs! I LOVED that he and his wife, Angie, decided to start doing this out of the kindness of their hearts.
They drive from Yuma, AZ (my hometown!!!) and then give free hugs, pizza, drinks, donuts, use phone chargers, and many other things to any Marine that is without visitors on family day as a way to ensure no Marine is left alone on such a momentous day. As a sailor who didn’t have any family at my graduation 8 years ago, this really hit home for me. I decided to go to Delta’s family day, today, to meet John and Angie. I am so glad I did!
I got the warm welcome I wish I would have had when I graduated from Bootcamp. Interestingly enough, John also did not have visitors on his family day, 30 years ago, when he graduated from MCRD.
Needless to say, this warms both of our hearts so much!!! Please enjoy some of the photos I took today while I ate pizza and helped round up recruits that were family-less.
My mom “Lowcrawl Hug” with Angie - thanks to their son for the photo!
If you would like to donate to Lowcrawl hugs, please do so here!
Good Reads for New Military MoMs (Mom of a Marine) | 2025
As a San Diego-based veteran, military photographer, and mother myself, I know firsthand the pride and emotional weight that comes with watching your child become a United States Marine. Whether you're preparing for that first letter from Boot Camp or holding your breath until graduation day, these handpicked reads are for you.
Each book in this 2025 list has been chosen to help new Marine moms find comfort, understanding, and strength—from heartfelt journals to honest stories from fellow military parents. From Be Safe, Love Mom to Rise Up Military Moms, these resources offer more than just information—they offer connection.
Start here if you’re looking to feel seen, supported, and surrounded by others who truly get it.