A Trip That Carries Our Legacy Forward
I’ve been fortunate to be part of many exciting promotions over the years, but few have carried the weight, meaning, and emotion of the Marine Corps Community Services (MCCS) Trip to France Giveaway. The idea of launching this giveaway was simple but powerful: honor the Marine Corps’ 250th birthday by connecting today’s Marines and families to the places where the Corps’ legacy was forged. What we didn’t fully anticipate was just how deeply this experience would resonate with our community. More than 23,000 entries poured in from across the Marine Corps family, representing overwhelming pride in our shared connection to our history.
On 3 December, I had the honor of calling the winner – Mrs. Katie M., a Marine spouse in Hawaii. Hearing her reaction as she realized she had won a once-in-a-lifetime journey to France was unforgettable. Even more meaningful was hearing her immediate thought to use this as an opportunity to surprise her husband, a Marine Corps Major stationed at Marine Corps Base Hawaii. Moments like that are exactly why we do what we do at MCCS.
Katie and her husband will soon embark on a 10-day journey through France, visiting Normandy, Paris, and Belleau Wood – locations considered sacred ground for Marines. From the beaches of Normandy to the forests of Belleau Wood, where Marines earned the nickname “Teufel Hunden” for their courage in World War I, this trip is a living history lesson and a tribute to generations of service.
The Trip to France Giveaway would not have been possible without our incredible partnership with USAA. Together, we set out to create something more than a prize. This experience honors sacrifice, strengthens connection, and reminds our Marines and their families that they are seen, valued, and appreciated.
As someone who helped bring this contest to life, I’m proud of the outcome and what it represents. MCCS and MCXs are more than a retailer and place to shop we support morale, create memories, and give back to the community that sacrifices daily.
Stay tuned as we follow Katie’s journey – we look forward to seeing France through the eyes of a Marine Corps family. We hope this trip will serve as a reminder of the Corps’ continued history – not just in books or battlefields, but in the families that continue to carry the Marine Corps legacy forward.
About the Author
Amanda Ayers began her career as a Marketing Intern for the Marine Corps Marathon after graduating from George Mason University in 2006. She went on to gain sales and marketing experience with the Richmond Flying Squirrels, the Army Ten-Miler, and eventually at Headquarters, U.S. Marine Corps Business and Support Services Division. Today, she proudly serves as a leader within Marine Corps Community Services, continuing her mission to support Marines and their families around the world.
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