The MCRD Museum Foundation is committed to ensuring that the MCRD SD Command Museum remains a living tribute to the courage, sacrifice, and honor of the U.S. Marine Corps. More than just a museum, it is a sanctuary where stories of bravery and sacrifice are shared, and where generations—past, present, and future—are united by the enduring legacy of the Marine Corps.
Founded with a mission to promote the legacy of the Marine Corps through historic preservation, free educational programs, and community outreach initiatives, the MCRD Museum Foundation provides a space for Marines, Sailors, veterans, their families, and the greater public to connect with the history of those who have served and continue to serve. Through these efforts, the Foundation seeks to positively impact the lives of service members and civilians alike, fostering a deep respect for the sacrifices made in defense of freedom.
A Living Tribute to the Marine Corps Legacy
The MCRD SD Command Museum, a cornerstone of the MCRD Museum Foundation’s efforts, is more than a collection of artifacts—it is a place of memories. For veterans, it serves as a sacred space to share their personal stories of sacrifice, courage, and resilience with their families. For recruits, it offers a powerful reminder of the legacy they are about to join, connecting them to the generations of Marines who have paved the way before them. The museum ensures that every visitor, young or old, understands the weight of history and the profound impact of the Marine Corps on our nation’s freedom and security.
Building Bridges Between Generations
Through its extensive outreach programs, the Foundation strives to build bridges between generations of Marines and civilians. It provides a space for families, especially the children of Marines, to understand the significance of the sacrifices made by their loved ones. For children who have grown up without a parent, who have missed birthdays, holidays, and milestones, the museum becomes a place of healing. Here, they can finally grasp what their loved ones are fighting for—a cause far greater than themselves.
“The MCRD Museum is a space for families to come together, to reflect on the past, and to find healing in the present. It allows children of Marines to understand the immense sacrifices made by their parents, and in doing so, strengthens the connection between families and the Marine Corps,” says Daren Erickson, Executive Director of the MCRD Museum Foundation.
Creating Connections Through Community Engagement
The Foundation also provides a safe, supportive space for active duty Marines and their families. Through free community events, the Foundation brings Marines together to celebrate the unbreakable bonds that unite them. These events are designed to be more than just fun activities—they are moments of shared pride, strength, and support that deepen the connection between active duty service members and their families.
The Foundation’s Commitment to the Future
As part of its ongoing mission, the MCRD Museum Foundation is committed to expanding its educational programs, preserving the rich history of the Marine Corps, and continuing to offer free events that bring Marines and civilians together in celebration of their shared heritage. The Foundation’s work is vital in ensuring that the history of the Marine Corps is never forgotten and that the next generation is inspired by the bravery and dedication that define the Marine Corps.
For more information about the MCRD Museum Foundation, or to learn how you can support its mission, visit our website or contact Ashley Petters at apetters@mcrdmhs.org or by phone (408) 505-1943.