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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 South Dakota, a state rich with Marine Corps pride and powerful stories of post-service impact.
Steven Rueschhoff
Scout Leader & Veteran Advocate | Sioux Falls, South Dakota
Steven Rueschhoff served more than eight years in the United States Marine Corps (1987–1995), deploying during Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm with Fleet Marine Force Pacific, 1st Marine Division, 1st Marine Expeditionary Brigade, and Combat Service Support Detachment 40. He attained the rank of sergeant, reflecting the Corps’ values of leadership and dedication.
After his service, Rueschhoff volunteered for five years with the Boy Scouts of America, mentoring youth in teamwork, resilience, and service. He now continues that mission as commandant of the Marine Corps League, Department of South Dakota, leading veteran advocacy, outreach, and commemorative efforts statewide.
In his civilian career, he serves as a senior voice systems administrator at First Premier Bank / Premier Bankcard, applying a mission-first mindset to maintaining critical communications systems.
MajGen Mark A. Clark, USMC (Ret.)
MARSOC’s First Aviator Commander | Special Operations & Veteran Advocate | Sioux Falls, South Dakota
A native of Sioux Falls, Major General Mark A. “Droopy” Clark served 33 years in the United States Marine Corps, building a career defined by aviation excellence, joint leadership, and special operations innovation. Commissioned in 1981, he earned his Naval Aviator wings in 1983 and flew CH-53 Super Stallion and MH-53J Pave Low helicopters in combat operations including Operation Desert Storm and Operation Deliberate Force in Bosnia.
Clark went on to serve in key U.S. Special Operations assignments with SOCOM, including roles in Qatar, at U.S. Special Operations Command, and as Director of Operations (J3) and Chief of Staff. In 2012, he made history as the first aviator to command Marine Forces Special Operations Command (MARSOC), helping shape the organization into a globally integrated and mission-ready force.
Since retiring, Clark has continued to serve Marines and special operators through business leadership and nonprofit advocacy. He is the founder of Resolute Solutions LLC, co-owner of Droopy Drawers LLC, and a senior advisor with Navigators Global. He serves on multiple boards, including the Special Operations Warrior Foundation, Marine Raider Association, Warriors Ethos, Air Center Helicopters, and Klas Telecom, supporting fallen families, transitioning veterans, and operational readiness.
Clark’s legacy reflects a lifetime commitment to leadership, service, and the Marine Corps ethos—in uniform and beyond.
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.
