Houston Daily

Governor Greg Abbott participated in a ceremony at the Texas Capitol to mark the 250th anniversary of the United States Marine Corps. The event brought together Texas Marines, active service members, and veterans.

"We must remember that we are the mightiest country in the world because we have the mightiest military in the history of the world," Governor Abbott said during his remarks. "Marines play a crucial role in the story of our people, protecting our rights and liberties for a quarter of a millennium. On this momentous 250th birthday, we salute our Marines past and present who embody their timeless motto, semper fidelis."

As part of the celebration, Governor Abbott presented retired USMC Colonel Joe McPhail with a Texas flag that had been flown over the Capitol and a proclamation recognizing the Marine Corps' 250 years. Governor Abbott and Colonel McPhail then cut a ceremonial birthday cake using a Marine Corps Officers sword. Colonel McPhail, who is 104 years old, is noted as the oldest living F4U Corsair pilot. He served two deployments to the Pacific during World War II and one deployment during the Korean War, earning two Distinguished Flying Crosses.

The ceremony was also attended by USMC Lieutenant Colonel Andrew Dawsley; Chuck Wright, Secretary of the Texas Veterans Commission and Marine veteran; Joe Esparza, Chairman of the Texas Workforce Commission and Marine veteran; members of Round Rock High School's JROTC Marine Color Guard; singer Monty Warden; and Fox 7 Austin anchor Mike Warren.

Additional photographs from the event will be made available when possible.