What does the Marine Corps’ 250th Birthday mean to you?

Pure excellence. 250 years is a massive milestone as the Marine Corps has shown resiliency in every clime and place as we have continued to keep our country safe in every battle we have engaged in. Over the past 250 years we have seen so much growth and adaptation. I am thankful for the Marines who paved the road 250 years ago and am honored to be apart of the BEST warfighting organization as I get to see it to 250 years.

When I first entered Officer Candidate School in 2016, I was drawn in by the history and reputation of the Marines. People around the world hold the Marine Corps to the highest standard and there is so much honor in wearing the cloth. To me, when I get to sing the Marine Corps Hymn, I am reminded of the brilliant legacy that encompasses the Marines; the Mexican-American War, WWI, WWII, Korean War, Vietnam, Afghanistan, Iraq and fighting against global terrorism. There is not a single moment in the past 250 years that has not involved the Marines and where we have not excelled.

In my short six years of active duty, I reflect and am full of celebration. Thank you to all who have came before and for the next generation, get ready for the next several hundred years as our Corps is not slowing down anytime soon. In 2025 we have immense amount of pride for what we have done, but as Marines, we expect nothing less and are focused and are ready for the next call our nation has.