Marine Corps Association

02/15/2025

80 years ago, Marines fought one of the most grueling battles in our history—where survival was anything but guaranteed.

Follow the story of Cpl Robert Floyd Pounders and his fellow Scout Snipers as they braved the chaos of Iwo Jima, shaping the legacy of Marine Corps marksmanship and resilience.

Read more about their harrowing journey and the fight for survival in "Shattered Nerves, Quick Death: A Scout Sniper Platoon on Iwo Jima" by Geoffrey W. Roecker.

🔗 Read here: https://buff.ly/4k5nVeO

02/14/2025

🎙️ New Episode of the Scuttlebutt Podcast 🎙️

The Road to 250 continues as we celebrate the Marine Corps’ 250th birthday in 2025! This week, we’re joined by historian Paul Westermeyer to explore the legendary Archibald Gillespie and his pivotal role in California’s history. 🌟

🎧 Tune in and dive deep into the rich history of the Marine Corps as we count down to its 250th anniversary: https://buff.ly/3QgsxRu

02/13/2025

🌟 In honor of Black History Month, we revisit the remarkable contributions of the Montford Point Marines, whose bravery and sacrifice during World War II shattered racial boundaries and left an indelible mark on history.

One of their defining moments came on the sands of Iwo Jima, where black Marines, who were initially relegated to non-combat roles, found themselves on the front lines—facing relentless fire to supply, protect, and fight alongside their fellow Marines.

The courage of Corporal Gene Doughty, Sergeant Thomas McPhatter, and countless others not only bridged a racial divide but also exemplified the core values of the Marine Corps: honor, courage, and commitment. Their actions continue to inspire Marines today.

Read the full story of these trailblazers and their heroic efforts at Iwo Jima: https://buff.ly/4gzRP7R

02/11/2025

🌊 Project Sea Wolf: Rethinking Marine Maritime Reconnaissance
As global conflicts reshape modern warfare, the Marine Corps must adapt beyond traditional large-scale assaults. Project Sea Wolf explores innovative solutions for maritime reconnaissance, small boat operations, and countering asymmetric threats in the Indo-Pacific.

Learn how history, technology, and strategic foresight can shape the future of Marine operations.

2024 LtCol Earl “Pete” Ellis Essay Contest Winner: Honorable Mention

02/10/2025

02/09/2025

A Night to Remember – The 2025 MCA West Coast Dinner 🇺🇸

Thank you to everyone who joined us for an unforgettable evening in Carlsbad! From reconnecting with fellow Marines to hearing from LtGen Michael S. Cederholm, this event strengthened the bonds within our Marine Corps family.

A special congratulations to 1stLt Troy Garza, recipient of the 2024 Shaun M. Blue Trophy for Inspirational Leadership at The Basic School! Your dedication and leadership embody the very best of our Corps.

A heartfelt thank you to our generous sponsors for making this night possible. Your support ensures we continue to honor and empower Marines across the West Coast.

📷 Relive the moments: https://buff.ly/4aSMXcB

02/08/2025

🔥 Five Historic Battles. One Legendary Legacy. 🇺🇸

Join us in commemorating 250 years of Marine Corps history with a virtual challenge! Run, bike, row, walk, or swim—you choose how to complete each event!

🏅 Sign up for the full series and SAVE $15 while earning exclusive collectible pins for each battle. Be among the first 250 participants to secure these commemorative race pins!

📍 The Battles & Distances:
- Assault on Nassau 5K – Feb 15
- Fort Fisher Victory 10K – Apr 5
- Guadalcanal Offensive 10K – Jun 21
- Battle of Hue 6.8 Miles – Aug 23
- Fallujah Freedom 5K – Oct 11

💪 Honor the legacy. Challenge yourself. Be part of history.

📸 Share your journey using our event hashtag or send your results via DM/email for a chance to be featured!

🔗 Sign up now: https://buff.ly/42PXcNb

02/08/2025

🏛 Where History Comes to Stay 🇺🇸

For nearly 80 years, the Marines’ Memorial Club & Hotel has stood as a living tribute to service members. From its origins as a WWII waystation to today’s vibrant landmark, it continues to honor the legacy of Marines and all who have served.

Located in the heart of San Francisco, the MMC&H is more than just a hotel—it’s a piece of history.

📖 Read more: https://buff.ly/42OfwpI

02/07/2025

🎙️ New Episode Alert! In this week’s MCA Scuttlebutt Podcast, we sit down with Kater Miller (Outreach Curator) and Chuck Girbovan (Exhibit Chief) from the National Museum of the Marine Corps to discuss the fascinating process of creating exhibits.

They walk us through how history is curated, with a special focus on the exhibit that covers the Marine Corps' history from 1975 through the end of OIF and OEF. If you haven’t seen it yet, it’s a must-see—especially for veterans of the Long War.

It’s not magic—it’s museum curation! Listen in for a behind-the-scenes look at the creative process.

👉 Listen now: https://buff.ly/3CrKNUU
➡️ Museum Website: https://buff.ly/2LJTnOk

02/05/2025

Thank you for joining us at the MCA Hawaii Professional Dinner! 🇺🇸✨
We had an incredible evening filled with camaraderie and inspiring words from LtGen James F. Glynn, Commander, US Marine Forces, Pacific.

📸 Check out event photos here: https://buff.ly/42JcanU – feel free to tag and share!

We look forward to seeing you at future MCA events.

02/04/2025

🚨 Calling all Marine logistics professionals! The 2025 MCA Albany Professional Dinner is happening February 20—don’t miss this opportunity to network and hear from LtGen Stephen D. Sklenka, Deputy Commandant for Installations & Logistics.

📍 Hilton Garden Inn, Albany, GA
🕠 Reception: 5:30 PM
🎟 Tickets: $59 MCA Members | $79 Non-Members
✅ FREE for Active-Duty Marines & Spouses (Spouses must email [email protected] to register)

Join us for an evening of insightful discussions and camaraderie! Register today!
🔗 https://buff.ly/4hEsoD4

02/04/2025

🇺🇸 How can the Marine Corps counter China’s growing naval threat?

The winning essay of the 2024 LtCol Earl “Pete” Ellis Contest explores the past, present, and future of maritime operations—looking at PT boats in WWII and how modern Marine forces can adapt with new tactics and firepower. 💥

🔗 Read now: https://buff.ly/3PZSy7s

02/01/2025

🇺🇸 The United States Marine Corps is celebrating 250 YEARS of honor, commitment, and sacrifice!

To mark this milestone, we’re inviting YOU to join the 250 Miles for 250 Years challenge.
Starting March 6, 2025, complete 250 miles in 250 days—run, walk, bike, swim, or row—every mile honors a year of USMC history!

✅ Sign up now & get your hands on a limited-edition challenge coin featuring the Marine Corps’ 250th birthday logo! 🏅

📸 Don’t forget to share your progress using and inspire others along the way!

💪 Ready to make history?
Sign up today ➡️ https://buff.ly/3Ct1qPM

01/31/2025

🌟 Honoring Marine Corps Excellence: 2024 CMC Award Winners

The Commandant of the Marine Corps (CMC) proudly recognizes the best of the best! 🎖️ Congratulations to our 2024 Award Winners for their outstanding service in their respective fields:

🏅 Marine Corps Recruiter of the Year
Gunnery Sergeant Emmanuel F. Santos (Recruiting Station Springfield)

🏅 Drill Instructor of the Year
Staff Sergeant Steven T. Banuski (Recruit Depot Parris Island)

🏅 Marine Security Guard of the Year
Sergeant Nicholas A. Andriaccio (Marine Corps Embassy Security Group, Region 1)

🏅 Marine Combat Instructor of the Year
Gunnery Sergeant Fredrick M. Padilla (School of Infantry - West)

Runners-Up:
🏅 Recruiter of the Year Runner-Up – Staff Sergeant Tyler J. Hoffman
🏅 Drill Instructor of the Year Runner-Up – Gunnery Sergeant Brenda E. DeLosReyes
🏅 Security Guard of the Year Runner-Up – Gunnery Sergeant Lazaro B. Rodriguez
🏅 Combat Instructor of the Year Runner-Up – Sergeant Dylan T. Rasmussen

These Marines exemplify excellence, dedication, and leadership, setting the standard for others to follow. Let’s all take a moment to congratulate them! 🎉

🔗 View the official pictures here: https://buff.ly/4jHchX5

01/31/2025

🚨 The Marine Corps Warfighting Lab: Leading Innovation for 30 Years

For 30 years, the Marine Corps Warfighting Lab (MCWL) has been driving innovation to ensure the Marine Corps remains lethal on any battlefield. From advanced autonomous systems to cutting-edge wargaming, the MCWL is preparing the Marines for future challenges by exploring new strategies and technologies.

🌍 What’s next for future warfare? Discover how the MCWL’s research, experimentation, and Force Design are shaping the next generation of military operations.

Read the full story on how MCWL is revolutionizing military strategy and keeping our forces ahead of global threats.

🔗 https://buff.ly/3Es2QKX

01/28/2025

🇺🇸 MCA Events: February & March
From mental health discussions to virtual challenges, and opportunities to connect with fellow Marines and spouses, these events are all about supporting and strengthening our community.

Join us to make connections, gain valuable insights, be part of something meaningful, and celebrate a tradition of honor, commitment, and sacrifice.

🗓️ View our full event schedule and sign up today! https://buff.ly/40OqOsL

01/26/2025

🎬 "The Gift" – A Must-Watch Documentary Now Streaming! 🇺🇸

"The Gift" is now available on streaming platforms, and it’s an emotional journey through the life and sacrifice of Corporal Jason Dunham. In 2004, Jason made the ultimate sacrifice by smothering a gr***de with his Kevlar helmet to save two Marines, an act of heroism that earned him the Medal of Honor.

This documentary captures the stories of his fellow Marines, his family, and the profound impact Jason’s legacy has had over the years. Directed by David Kniess, it’s a tribute to the enduring spirit of courage and sacrifice.

🔗 Watch the film now and reflect on the true cost of war: https://buff.ly/3Co4yMP

👉 Read the full article to learn more about how this documentary came to life: https://buff.ly/4gbvaPa

In 2003, film producer and director David Kniess caught a red-eye flight from California, bound for the East Coast. A young Marine took the seat next to him.

01/25/2025

🎉 Big congratulations to the newest Chief Warrant Officers of the U.S. Marine Corps!

We’re excited to celebrate the promotion of these outstanding officers to the ranks of W5, W4, and W3. Your dedication, expertise, and commitment to service make a lasting impact on the Marine Corps and our nation. Thank you for your continued leadership!

Semper Fidelis! 🇺🇸

View the list here: https://buff.ly/42p4kQc