This past weekend, Marine Corps Heritage Foundation President & CEO, MajGen James Lukeman, USMC (Ret.), helped bring Marine Corps 250 to Major League Baseball’s Cactus League Spring Training with a series of first pitch appearances, on-field tributes and media engagements honoring 250 years of the United States Marine Corps.
The Marine Corps Heritage Foundation partnered with three MLB teams—the Chicago Cubs, Milwaukee Brewers, and San Diego Padres—to celebrate Marine Corps history and ensure that baseball fans across Arizona were part of this once-in-a-lifetime commemoration.
First Pitches Honoring 250 Years of the Marine Corps
MajGen Lukeman kicked off the weekend with a ceremonial first pitch at Thursday night’s Cubs vs. Royals game in Phoenix, where fans showed their support for Marines past and present. The celebration continued on Friday at the Brewers vs. Padres game, with another special first pitch moment honoring the Marines' historic milestone. The weekend wrapped up on Saturday at the Padres vs. Guardians game, where the Marine 250 message was once again highlighted on the field.
A National Spotlight on Marine Corps 250
Beyond the ballpark, MLB Network helped amplify the Marine 250 message to fans nationwide. On Friday morning, MajGen Lukeman appeared live on MLB Network’s Hot Stove, where he discussed the significance of Marine Corps 250, the Foundation’s efforts to celebrate this milestone, and how partnerships like Cactus League Spring Training play a vital role in bringing the Marine Corps story to the American public.
🎥 Watch the full interview here.
Marine Corps 250 Continues Through 2025
As the Marine Corps continues its 250th anniversary celebrations throughout 2024 and into November 10, 2025, events like Cactus League Spring Training showcase the enduring bond between the Marine Corps and communities nationwide.
The Marine Corps Heritage Foundation is honored to have worked alongside these MLB teams to ensure that fans, veterans, and active-duty Marines had the opportunity to take part in this momentous anniversary.
Stay tuned for more Marine 250 events across the country—and if you’re attending a game, keep an eye out for special Marine Corps tributes all season long!
🔗 Learn more about Marine 250 and upcoming events here at Marine250.com.
About Marine Corps 250 and the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation
Marine Corps 250 is a year-long national campaign honoring the 250th anniversary of the United States Marine Corps. Through events, partnerships, and storytelling, Marine Corps 250 highlights the legacy of the Marines—past, present, and future—celebrating their unwavering commitment to service, honor, and courage.
The Marine Corps Heritage Foundation (MCHF), the organization leading this historic initiative, is dedicated to preserving and sharing the history, traditions, and culture of the Marine Corps. Through the National Museum of the Marine Corps, educational programs, and commemorative events, MCHF ensures that the legacy of the Corps is honored and passed down to future generations.
For more information on Marine Corps 250 and how you can get involved, visit www.Marine250.com.
