I have always been an admirer of the US Marine Corps. During World War II, my dad and mom so respected Marines that at one time we had three Marine couples living with us because housing was not available. In fact my first grade teacher, Mirk Minor, was a spouse. Subsequent Marine couples residing with us were like family. I have continued to respect members of the corps and their economic impact with admiration. Also, many community leaders are retired Marines who have chosen to live in this area. I am proud to serve on the Aviation Heritage Foundation Board.