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As our nation celebrates 250 years of American independence in 2026, the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation is proud to continue spotlighting the Marines whose stories shape not just the history of the Marine Corps but the very fabric of American society. Through our Marines Across America campaign, we are honoring the service, leadership, and lasting contributions of Marines in all 50 states.
Today, we turn our focus to Oklahoma, a state rich with Marine Corps pride and powerful stories of post-service impact.
Brandi Rector
Aviation Entrepreneur | Norman, Oklahoma
Brandi Rector is a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and aviation entrepreneur. She served from 2008–2014 as a CH-53E helicopter mechanic and door gunner, completing two overseas deployments. After leaving active duty, she earned her pilot’s license, becoming both a certified flight instructor and FAA-certified A&P mechanic.
Rector is the founder and CEO of Semper Fly Helicopters, the only female Marine veteran–owned helicopter flight school in the United States. Based in Norman, Oklahoma, the school partners with the University of Oklahoma to train professional helicopter pilots with a focus on safety, precision, and career readiness.
She also leads Skyhunter Outfitters, a female-owned aerial hog hunting operation operating along the Oklahoma–Texas border, combining aviation expertise with environmental stewardship.
Steven W. Taylor
Former Chief Justice, Oklahoma Supreme Court | McAlester, Oklahoma
Steven W. Taylor is a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and influential Oklahoma jurist. He served from 1970–1978, rising to the rank of major, and became the youngest judge in the U.S. Armed Forces at age 28. A native of Henryetta raised in McAlester, he earned degrees from Oklahoma State University and the University of Oklahoma College of Law.
Taylor entered public service as McAlester’s youngest mayor in 1982 before serving as associate district judge and chief judge of Oklahoma’s 18th Judicial District, presiding over 500+ jury trials, including the state trial of Oklahoma City bombing conspirator Terry Nichols.
Appointed to the Oklahoma Supreme Court in 2004, Taylor served as chief justice from 2011–2013 and retired in 2016 after 33 years of judicial service. He is the only individual inducted into both the OSU and OU Halls of Fame and continues to serve Oklahoma through civic leadership, board service, and public advocacy.
Continuing the Mission in 2026
As the United States marks America’s 250th anniversary, these stories are a vivid reminder that the legacy of the Marine Corps is etched not only in history books, but in the communities where Marines live, lead, and serve every day.
The Marine Corps Heritage Foundation is honored to amplify these voices as part of our Marines Across America campaign—now integrated into our America250 efforts—to showcase how Marines have shaped America for 250 years.
👉 Help us continue sharing these stories and preserving the rich legacy of the Marine Corps. Your support allows us to honor the past, celebrate the present, and inspire future generations.
About Marines Across America and America250
As our nation celebrates its 250th birthday in 2026, Marines Across America honors the legacy of those who have served in the United States Marine Corps and the impact they’ve made—on and off the battlefield—for 250 years. This special storytelling series, part of the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation’s ongoing efforts to preserve Marine Corps history, highlights Marines from across the country whose service and continued contributions embody the values of honor, courage, and commitment.
Through personal stories, career reflections, and community leadership, these Marines represent the enduring spirit of service that has shaped America since 1775. As we commemorate America250, we invite you to help us preserve this living history. Your support ensures that the stories of Marines—past, present, and future—will be shared with future generations.