The USMC Memorial Foundation proudly celebrates the 47th Anniversary of the United States Marine Corps Memorial with a special performance by Dave Bray USA™!
We will honor distinguished guests Jim Blane and Al Jennings, veterans of Iwo Jima. Additionally, Medal of Honor Recipient Drew Dix and representatives from the Center for American Values will be in attendance.
Experience the event up close by becoming a VIP! Sit in the exclusive Circle of Honor with Dave Bray USA™ and our esteemed honorees. VIP seating is limited to 200 guests (including plus ones).
To attend as a VIP, donate using the “Buy a Brick” option from June 1st, 2024, through August 23rd. Larger bricks receive closer seating. If you bring a plus one, donate an additional $50 and note it’s for a plus one. Please include your phone and email for any necessary contact.
General admission seating is limited to 500 guests. Bring your own chair or sit on the grass. Proof of a $50 donation per person, made between June 1st, 2024, and August 23rd, is required for entry. Ground seating is on a first-come, first-served basis.
Donate $50 or more by August 23rd to receive general admission to the anniversary celebration. Use the button below to donate.
Donate a brick to the Memorial remodel to receive VIP seating. Use the button below to donate a brick.
Sponsor opportunities are available. Use the button below for more information. Email Paula Sarlls at president@usmcmemorialfoundation.org.
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Dave is a USN/USMC Veteran who considers his “Music on a Mission” to be a continuation of his Service. He has dedicated his career to honoring our American Heroes- our police, firefighters, military and veterans.
Dave has over a decade of touring experience, 6 studio albums and millions of streams and views across all platforms. Dave has performed with Rock Legends Aerosmith, Shinedown, Lynyrd Skynyrd, as well as Country Stars Charlie Daniels, Travis Tritt, Lee Greenwood, Hank Williams Jr., & Toby Keith!
Bray has performed for NFL, NHL, NASCAR, Special Olympics, World Police & Fire Games, Military Bowl, National Police Week, PBR World Finals, NRA Country, Fox & Friends and for countless Theatres, Festivals, Bike Weeks, Military, Corporate and Formal events!
His rock rendition of the “Star Spangled Banner” is one of the most recognized and popular versions of the song! It has garnered Millions of Views and over 1.5 Million streams across all platforms.
Dave released his solo album “Music On A Mission” which charted on the iTunes rock charts and includes his breakout single and haunting tribute, “Last Call.”
His sophomore album, “Too Far Gone” released at #1 and garnered him national success in both Country and Rock!
“Stay the Course, Finish the Fight, & NEVER SURRENDER!!”- Dave Bray USA
Official Merchandise: DaveBrayUSA.com *Free Signed CD with every order
The Foundation is pleased to have the following Iwo Jima veterans as our honored guests. Don Whipple with the original flag raising, and Jim Blane is an honorary board member of the Foundation and witnessed the flag raising.
Jim Blane, born on November 18, 1924, is set to celebrate his 100th birthday this year. His military service began in a clerical role before he transitioned to the front lines as a rifleman and company clerk. Jim’s journey through World War II saw him engaging in some of the Pacific’s earliest and fiercest battles, starting at Roi Namur in the Marianas Islands, then moving to Saipan, and later to Tinian—one of the pivotal islands for victory in the war.
His service extended to Iwo Jima, where he witnessed the iconic flag raising on Mt. Suribachi. Jim was wounded at Iwo Jima and returned to Hawaii, marking his fourth or fifth return during his service, for both training and medical treatment. The intense experiences and injuries from these battles deeply impacted his life.
Like many of his fellow WWII veterans, Jim seldom discussed his service but later found a voice following the publication of Flags of Our Fathers. He shared more of his story in More than 36 Days by Carron Walpole, a former Marine who is considerably younger. Jim is also an honorary board member of the USMC Memorial Foundation and embodies the spirit of a true Marine.
WWII Marine Veteran Alfred Wendell Jennings was just seventeen when he joined the Marines in 1939. Because he was not eighteen, his mother and father had to sign a permission slip for him to become a Marine. He and his brothers all joined up. Al saw one of his brothers briefly during the five weeklong battle at Guadalcanal. And two of his other brothers met earlier at an earlier battle on the same island. He served 1939-1945. He served in I Company, 3rd Battalion, 26th Marine Regiment, 5th Marine Division. He was a Private First Class and was in the Battle of Iwo Jima witnessing the famous flag raising.
Drew Dix, a distinguished Medal of Honor recipient, has devoted his life to exemplifying and promoting American values. His heroism and leadership have left an indelible mark on his community and the nation.
Dix’s journey to becoming a Medal of Honor recipient is a testament to his extraordinary bravery and unwavering commitment to his comrades. His valor in the face of overwhelming odds demonstrated the highest standards of military service and earned him the nation’s highest military honor. This prestigious award is a reflection of his selflessness, courage, and dedication to duty.
Following his military service, Dix channeled his passion for patriotism and civic responsibility into founding the Center for American Values. This organization, dedicated to preserving and promoting the principles that define the United States, serves as a beacon of inspiration and education. Under Dix’s leadership, the Center has become a vital institution, offering programs and initiatives that foster a deeper understanding of the core values of honor, integrity, and service.
Become a Sponsor
Your sponsorship will greatly assist in covering the expenses for Dave Bray and other related costs for the performance.
Sponsorship Levels:
All sponsors will receive recognition during the event presentation.
How to Sponsor: Please provide a check or make an online donation to the USMC Memorial Foundation. Your generous support will be acknowledged with gratitude and help us create a memorable event for all attendees.
Email Paula Sarlls at president@usmcmemorialfoundation.org.