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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 Rhode Island, a state rich with Marine Corps pride and powerful stories of post-service impact.
Col. Gerry W. Leonard (Ret.)
Business Leader | Veterans' Advocate | Fundraiser | Former Congressional Candidate | Jamestown, Rhode Island
Col. Gerry Leonard (Ret.) served more than 30 years in the U.S. Marine Corps, leading at every level from company command to senior strategic staff. His career included teaching at the U.S. Naval War College, serving as chief of plans for NATO’s ISAF mission in Afghanistan, and commanding the Weapons and Field Training Battalion at Parris Island, where he strengthened performance and organizational culture. He concluded his service as chief of staff for Marine Forces Reserve, driving operational reforms and cost savings while reinforcing the Corps’ core values of honor, courage, and commitment.
After retiring, Leonard transitioned into the private sector as vice president of operations at Bentley Builders, overseeing construction and facilities projects across New England. In 2023, he ran for Congress in Rhode Island’s 1st District, winning the Republican primary and campaigning on bipartisan problem-solving, small business support, and restoring trust in government.
A dedicated veterans’ advocate, Leonard has volunteered as a fundraiser for Project Healing Waters Fly-Fishing since 2019. Alongside his son, he hiked the entire 2,200-mile Appalachian Trail, raising more than $20,000 to support disabled veterans.
Leonard continues to apply Marine Corps leadership principles to business, community service, and veteran support—proving that service does not end with retirement.
Harry Kizirian
Decorated WWII Marine & Postmaster | Providence, Rhode Island
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Harry Kizirian was a World War II Marine and one of the most decorated veterans in Rhode Island history. A first-generation American, he enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps the day after graduating high school in 1944.
Deployed to the Pacific, Kizirian served as a fire team leader during the Battle of Okinawa, landing in the first assault wave. For his extraordinary heroism, he earned the Navy Cross, Bronze Star with Combat “V”, and two Purple Hearts. His image from Okinawa appeared on the cover of The New York Times Sunday Magazine, becoming an enduring symbol of the battle.
After the war, Kizirian returned to Providence and was appointed Postmaster of Providence by President John F. Kennedy, becoming one of the youngest postmasters in the nation. He led the creation of the first automated post office in the United States, setting a global standard.
Kizirian devoted the rest of his life to community service and veteran advocacy. Today, a post office, plaza, and elementary school in Providence bear his name—lasting tributes to his courage, leadership, and service.
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.