Celebrating 250 Years: Marine Corps Heritage Foundation's Commemorative Coin Launch
The Marine Corps Heritage Foundation, in collaboration with the United States Mint, has officially commenced the celebration of the Marine Corps' 250th anniversary. This remarkable event began with a special coin striking ceremony on December 4, 2024, held at the U.S. Mint in Philadelphia. This celebration aims to honor the rich legacy of service and valor demonstrated by the Marines over the past two and a half centuries.
The newly minted commemorative coins - available in Gold, Silver, and Clad - feature iconic imagery that pays homage to pivotal moments in Marine Corps history. Notable images include the famed Iwo Jima flag-raising and representations of both historic and modern Marine Corps uniforms. These coins not only serve as collectibles but are also a symbol of the enduring spirit of the Marine Corps. Retired Major General James Lukeman, who now serves as the President and CEO of the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation, emphasized the significance of the 250th anniversary: "This presents a historic opportunity to connect all Americans with their Marine Corps throughout the year."
The festivities are set to continue throughout 2025, showcasing the esteemed values of the Marine Corps, which include honor, courage, and commitment. The Marine Corps aims to invite all Americans to join in recognizing the impact and history of their beloved Corps through a series of nationwide programs and remarkable events.
The Marine Corps Heritage Foundation, a nonprofit established in 1979, is dedicated to preserving and promoting Marine Corps history. It supports historical programs to ensure that the legacy and story of the Marine Corps are recognized and honored. For those interested in learning more about the 250th anniversary celebrations, they can visit Marine250.com. With a year full of activities planned, the Marine Corps is set to engage the nation in a heartfelt tribute to its history and values.
Join us in celebrating 250 years of heroic service and the relentless spirit of the U.S. Marine Corps!
The newly minted commemorative coins - available in Gold, Silver, and Clad - feature iconic imagery that pays homage to pivotal moments in Marine Corps history. Notable images include the famed Iwo Jima flag-raising and representations of both historic and modern Marine Corps uniforms. These coins not only serve as collectibles but are also a symbol of the enduring spirit of the Marine Corps. Retired Major General James Lukeman, who now serves as the President and CEO of the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation, emphasized the significance of the 250th anniversary: "This presents a historic opportunity to connect all Americans with their Marine Corps throughout the year."
The festivities are set to continue throughout 2025, showcasing the esteemed values of the Marine Corps, which include honor, courage, and commitment. The Marine Corps aims to invite all Americans to join in recognizing the impact and history of their beloved Corps through a series of nationwide programs and remarkable events.
Key Events of the Celebration
- - Fifty-State Cake Cutting: A traditional Marine Corps cake-cutting ceremony will be hosted in each of the 50 states, collaborating with governors to mark this special occasion.
- - Public Service Announcement: A new PSA titled "The Marine Corps 50th Birthday" will be launched to highlight the profound connection between the Corps and the country it serves.
- - Marines Across America: This initiative will spotlight the contributions of Marines after their service. The public is encouraged to share stories about the Marines they know through the dedicated website Marine250.com or via the hashtag #MarinesAcrossAmerica.
- - Celebratory Sports Events: Several sporting events, including matches like Notre Dame vs. Navy and the NASCAR Marine Corps 250, as well as various Minor League Baseball games, will feature tributes to the Marine Corps.
- - Traveling Combat Art Exhibit: Opening in January at The Citadel in Charleston, this exhibit, themed "The U.S. Marine Corps Air-Ground Team," will showcase the artistry and history of the Marine Corps.
- - Library of Congress Exhibit: In October and November 2025, special displays of Marine artifacts will be featured in a collection presented by the Library of Congress.
Additional Features
- - A program called "Birthday in a Box" will provide digital resources, allowing communities across the nation to host their own local celebrations for the Marine Corps birthday.
- - The honored few - fewer than 100 individuals designated as Honorary Marines for their extraordinary contributions - will also be celebrated throughout the year.
- - In an exciting highlight, Lance Corporal Chesty, the Marine Corps' bulldog mascot, will participate in the presentation of colors at the prestigious Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, taking place in February at Madison Square Garden.
The Marine Corps Heritage Foundation, a nonprofit established in 1979, is dedicated to preserving and promoting Marine Corps history. It supports historical programs to ensure that the legacy and story of the Marine Corps are recognized and honored. For those interested in learning more about the 250th anniversary celebrations, they can visit Marine250.com. With a year full of activities planned, the Marine Corps is set to engage the nation in a heartfelt tribute to its history and values.
Join us in celebrating 250 years of heroic service and the relentless spirit of the U.S. Marine Corps!
Topics People & Culture）
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