About

Our Mission

The Marine Corps League’s mission is to promote the interests and preserve the traditions of the United States Marine Corps, To strengthen the fraternity of Marines and their families, serve Marines, FMF Corpsmen, and FMF Chaplains, and foster the ideals of Americanism and patriotic volunteerism.

Our Mission CORNERSTONES

  • Close-up of the statue of a soldier in a helmet, with an American flag waving in the background against a blue sky.

    Preserve Traditions and Promote Interests

    The League works to keep alive the history and traditions of the Marine Corps, including observing historical anniversaries.

  • A group of soldiers in camouflage uniforms participating in a parade, carrying various flags, with spectators and children watching from the sidewalk.

    Strengthening the Marine Fraternity

    The League fosters fellowship among current and former Marines, their families, and Navy FMF Corpsmen and Chaplains.

  • A happy man with glasses and a tattoo on his left arm holds a young girl on his shoulders and a young boy in his arms, outside in a yard with trees and a white fence.

    Serving Marines and Their Families

    The League provides assistance and support to Marines and their families, including those who are active duty, veterans, or in need.

  • American flag waving in a field during sunset with rays of sunlight and clouds in the sky

    Fostering Americanism and Patriotism

    The League promotes the ideals of American freedom and democracy, encouraging members to be active and engaged citizens.

Special Actions

  • Voluntarily aiding and rendering assistance to all Marines and their families. 

  • Perpetuating the history of the United States Marine Corps. 

  • Providing mentorship, career counseling, and VA support. 

  • Assisting with transitions for veterans and their families. 

  • Supporting programs and events that raise funds for Marine Corps League objectives. 

  • Recognizing members, Marines, and community citizens for their deeds and actions. 

  • Supporting Marines, Marine units, and Marine families.

 our History

The Marine Corps League (MCL) is a veteran service organization dedicated to serving Marines and perpetuating the traditions of the United States Marine Corps. Here's a brief history of the Marine Corps League and key milestones.

  • Retired Major Sidney W. Brewster has a vision inspiring the formation of a Marine veterans organization.

  • The Marine Corps League was founded in 1923 by Major General John A. Lejeune, then Commandant of the Marine Corps and a decorated World War I veteran.

    Its roots trace back to a 1922 reunion of Marines who had served in World War I. During this gathering, the idea emerged to create a unified organization that could strengthen ties among Marine Corps veterans. This led to the formation of the Marine Corps Veterans Association, which was soon restructured and renamed the Marine Corps League during the historic “All-Marine Caucus” in 1923.

  • On August 4, 1937, the Marine Corps League received its congressional charter, officially recognizing it as the only Marine Corps-related veterans organization chartered by the United States Congress. This distinction underscores the League’s enduring commitment to preserving the traditions, esprit de corps, and camaraderie of the Marine Corps. The charter solidified its role in supporting Marines, past and present, and advocating for veterans at a national level.

  • Membership more than doubles and the number of detachments increases to over 160.

  • The first official "Toys for Tots" campaign is initiated by a Marine Corps reservist.

  • The MCL continues to thrive as a service and fraternal organization, with detachments across the United States and overseas.