HARRISBURG – Sen. Devlin Robinson (R-37) hosted a ceremony today in the Pennsylvania State Capitol to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States Marine Corps.
“As a Marine Corps veteran, I’m proud to stand alongside my brothers and sisters in service to recognize this incredible milestone,” Robinson said. “The Marine Corps has shaped leaders, strengthened communities, and defended freedom for two and a half centuries, and that’s something every American can celebrate.”
Robinson recently introduced a resolution designating Nov. 10, 2025, as Marine Corps Day in Pennsylvania. The resolution honored the 250th anniversary of the Marine Corps’ establishment and reaffirms Pennsylvania’s deep historical connection to its founding. Tun Tavern, a historic Philadelphia tavern and brewery (1685-1781), is considered the birthplace of the U.S. Marine Corps and permanently links the commonwealth to one of the nation’s most storied military institutions.
Sen. Greg Rothman (R-34) and Rep. Eric Nelson (R-57) — both fellow Marine Corps veterans — joined Robinson to commemorate the occasion and highlight new Marines as they symbolically took their oath to join the Marine Corps on the rotunda steps of the state capitol building during the ceremony.
“Enlisting in the Marine Corps was the best decision; becoming a Marine, the hardest; and serving, the most important thing I have done in my life,” Rothman said. “Ronald Reagan once said, ‘Some people go through life wondering if they have a purpose. Marines don’t have that problem.’ Happy 250th birthday — and here’s to another 250 years of fighting America’s enemies.”
“Today, as we celebrate this birthday, we reaffirm our commitment as hard chargers for this nation,” said Nelson. “And we pause to honor the thousands of Marines who never made it home — and the thousands more who took their own lives after returning.”
Guests and attendees joined in the traditional cake-cutting ceremony honoring Marine Corps customs and camaraderie.
“It was a great day to celebrate 250 years of Marine Corps history and to honor the heroes who have worn the uniform,” Robinson said. “Being surrounded by fellow Marines and patriots reminded me why our motto, Semper Fidelis — always faithful — continues to define who we are.”
View the entire ceremony here.
CONTACT: Stephanie Applegate