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Quantico, VA Chapter 32National Montford PointMarine Assoc., Inc |
News
Honoring a Living Legend: Carroll Braxton Turns 101 (July 2025). Original Montford Point Marine
Honoring a Living Legacy: Master Gunnery Sergeant Carroll W. Braxton at 101
Retired Master Gunnery Sergeant Carroll W. Braxton stands as an enduring figure in United States Marine Corps history. As one of the original Montford Point Marines, his life exemplifies courage, perseverance, and unwavering service. In 2025, the Commonwealth of Virginia formally honored him with “Carroll Braxton Day,” celebrating his extraordinary contributions to military service and civil progress.
Born in 1924 near Manassas, Virginia, Braxton enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1943, joining the segregated Montford Point training program. Despite facing institutional racism, he and his fellow Montford Point Marines built a legacy of unity, courage, and excellence.
During his distinguished 33‑year career, Braxton served with valor in both World War II and the Korean War, eventually rising to the rank of Master Gunnery Sergeant. In 2025, as he celebrated his 101st birthday, the Virginia General Assembly commemorated his service by formally declaring “Carroll Braxton Day.”
Beyond his military achievements, Braxton stands as a powerful symbol of societal progress. He helped forge a path from segregation to service, embodying resilience, leadership, and the advancement of civil rights within the Marine Corps and beyond.
Quantico Chapter 32, held our first Congressional Gold Medal (CGM)
Quantico Chapter 32, held our first Congressional Gold Medal (CGM) ceremony since our re-establishment, on Thursday, September 4th, in honor of Private First Class (PFC) Walter James Oliver. PFC Oliver served in the Marine Corps from June 1942 - March 1944. The recognition was fulfilled with dignity and respect. The medal was presented to his nephew, retired Gunnery Sergeant Douglas Boudreaux, and his family. Gunnery Sergeant Boudreaux’s steadfast commitment to seeing this request through reflects the enduring bond of Marines across generations. The ceremony, conducted by Past National President Forest Spencer, not only preserved the memory of PFC Oliver but also reaffirmed our devotion to honoring those whose service and sacrifice embody the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and our Nation.
The 60th Annual National Montford Point Marine Association (NMPMA) Convention, July 2025
The Montford Point Marine Association proudly celebrated its 60th Annual National Convention from July 23–27, 2025, in Atlanta, Georgia—a powerful tribute to six decades of honor, service, and resilience.
Veterans, families, and supporters united to reflect on the legacy of the first African American Marines, with signature events including the President’s Reception, Queen Coronation, and the National Awards Banquet & Gala.
More than a celebration—it was a renewed commitment to preserve the legacy and inspire the next generation.
Scroll below to view images from the 60th Annual Convention—honoring the past, celebrating the present, and inspiring the future.
Captured Moments of Pride, Unity, and Tradition
Milton D. Whitfield Receives Prestigious Historian Award, July 2025
At the 60th National Montford Point Marine Association Convention in Atlanta, Georgia, Milton D. Whitfield was honored with the Lieutenant Colonel Joseph H. Carpenter “Historian Award”—one of the Association’s most distinguished recognitions. Named in honor of LtCol Carpenter, a revered Marine and historian, the award celebrates individuals who have made exceptional contributions to preserving and promoting the rich history of the Montford Point Marines. Whitfield’s dedication to historical research, education, and the enduring legacy of the first African American Marines exemplifies the values this award represents.
Chapter #32 Vice President Joins Juneteenth Celebration, June 2025
NMPMA Quantico, VA Chapter #32 is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit . P.O. Box 1356, Stafford, VA 22555
Neither the United States Marine Corps nor any other component of the Department of Defense has approved, endorsed, or authorized this activity.