By Suzanne Downing 
The United States Marine Corps turns 250 on Monday, celebrating a legacy of grit, loyalty, and battle-tested excellence that began, quite fittingly, in a bar.
On Nov. 10, 1775, the Continental Congress authorized the creation of two battalions of Marines during the American Revolution. The meeting took place in Philadelphia’s Tun Tavern, a popular establishment owned by Robert Mullan, who became the Corps’ first recruiter. It was there that America’s first Marines were enlisted. This is a founding story unmatched by any other branch of the armed forces. They’re still a tough crop of fighters, fondly known as “Devil Dogs,” “Jarheads,” and “Leathernecks.”
Today, the Marine Corps is the smallest of the major military branches, but it carries a reputation far larger than its size. Marines pride themselves on toughness, unity, and a culture that demands excellence and lasts lifetimes. As every Marine knows, “Once a Marine, always a Marine.”
Although Alaska has no major Marine bases, its connection to the Corps runs deep. U.S. Sen. Dan Sullivan, now a Marine colonel in the Reserve, embodies that spirit. A member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, Sullivan has long advocated for a stronger Arctic posture and has called for a greater Marine presence in Alaska’s strategically vital region.
At present, Alaska hosts no permanent Marine installations. There are no dedicated USMC air stations, recruit depots, or logistics commands in the state. But the Corps does maintain a small reserve and recruiting footprint.
A Marine Corps Reserve detachment drills at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage, often linked to the 4th Law Enforcement Battalion. These Marines participate in local outreach, including the Toys for Tots program, and train regularly alongside other U.S. forces.
Recruiting stations in Anchorage keep the Marine spirit alive, operating under the 12th Marine Corps District headquartered in San Diego. These recruiters travel across Alaska to enlist men and women drawn to the challenge and honor of becoming a Marine.
Even without a permanent base, Alaska has become an important training ground for Marines preparing for Arctic warfare. Thousands rotate through each year to take part in large-scale exercises such as Arctic Edge, where they train in cold-weather survival, joint maneuvers, and live-fire operations. The Corps has increasingly focused on Arctic readiness amid rising tensions with Russia and China.
During World War II, Marines played a key role in Alaska’s defense, using the Aleutian Islands as a forward operating base against Japan. Most facilities were later closed, but the history remains — and so does the strategic importance of Alaska to America’s future defense posture.
From the taverns of Philadelphia to the tundra of Alaska, the Marine Corps has stood for two and a half centuries as a symbol of courage and commitment.
Though its presence in Alaska is modest, its legacy here is carried on through those who train, serve, and lead, including one of Alaska’s own, Sen. Dan Sullivan.
Semper Fidelis. Always faithful, for 250 years and counting.
Thanks for sharing this reminder with your readers. EVERY one knows about Veterans Day, but so very few know the USMC’s birthday and history. My dad spent ‘Four in the Corps,’ and then spent another six in the USAF Reserve and USAF. In 2007, I went to China with him and six other WWII vets who went into the mainland after the Japanese surrendered on the Missouri. An amazing tour with an amazing group of guys. The last one passed away in December 2024.
Very Good article on the Marines….my family has three deceased Marines from the WWII to Viet Nam and one from Gulf War in 1990. One Vet Marine brother left from Viet Nam era war. I wrote a letter to Senator Sullivan and asked why he ahs not pit non the open and much needed civilian viewing of our wonderful Marines. Alaska has never had an open appreciation time or a constant open presence to the State communities as we do with the Army and Air Force. Our citizens should be familiar with our Marines and their presence here in Alaska. During Senator Stevens time we had several visits here in the port area and Cook Inlet of the US Navy and a visit of the nuclear sub in 1987 in Seward with more US Navy frigates going into port in Southeast Alaska. Vets Day is a great way to say, “Thank You” to our Marines and Air Force and Army and Navy and Coast Guard. But appreciation for our Marines and their first into battle with total fearless courage. Happy Birthday and Thank you for being in service of our country. We need to see more of you here in Alaska and Senator Sullivan should make your presence known and shown all the time.