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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 Tennessee, a state rich with Marine Corps pride and powerful stories of post-service impact.
Stephen Cochran
Country Music Artist | Veteran Advocate | Nashville, Tennessee
Stephen Cochran is a country music artist and dedicated veteran advocate whose life bridges military service and music. He served nearly three years in the United States Marine Corps as a Scout Team Leader with 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, deploying to Iraq and Afghanistan. While deployed, he suffered a severe back injury that temporarily left him paralyzed. After groundbreaking surgery at the Nashville VA Medical Center, he regained the ability to walk and became a passionate voice for veterans’ healthcare.
Cochran transitioned to music in Nashville, releasing his self-titled debut album in 2007, with songs rooted in his military experience. In 2009, he served as the official spokesperson for the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Research and Development, co-writing and performing the song “Hope” to highlight veterans’ mental health. He continues to write veteran-focused music, including “Keep On” (2023).
Beyond music, Cochran co-founded the Stop22 Tour, using storytelling and song to combat veteran suicide, and remains active with organizations such as the Independence Fund, Semper Fi Fund, and Romans Warrior Foundation—continuing his mission of service long after leaving the Corps.
Andy Wetzel
Battalion Chief, Elizabethton Fire Department | Elizabethton, Tennessee
Andy Wetzel is a lifelong public servant whose career spans military service, emergency response, and community leadership. He served more than 27 years in the United States Marine Corps, rising to the rank of master sergeant. During his time in uniform, he held key leadership roles, including weapons platoon commander and company gunnery sergeant with Lima Company, 3rd Battalion, 24th Marines, deploying to Iraq and participating in Operation Sea Breeze 11 in Ukraine. His service was recognized with multiple awards, including the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal and the Combat Action Ribbon.
In 1998, Wetzel joined the Elizabethton Fire Department, where he steadily advanced through the ranks to become a battalion chief. In this role, he oversees emergency operations and firefighter training, bringing Marine Corps leadership principles into daily public safety operations. He also helped establish the department’s Honor Guard, ensuring fallen and serving firefighters are recognized with dignity and respect.
Wetzel’s commitment to service extends beyond his profession. A VFW Post 2166 commander and member of the Veterans War Memorial Committee, he remains deeply involved in veteran advocacy. Alongside his wife, Jenny, he also owns and operates the Stateline Drive-In Theatre, preserving a cherished community landmark. A proud father of three sons who are Marines, Andy Wetzel continues to live the values of service, leadership, and commitment every day.
Cpl. Richard Andrew Farrer
Marine Corps Veteran | Veteran Advocate & Minister | Murfreesboro, Tennessee
Submitted by: Katrina Farrer
Major James Capers Jr. is a highly decorated Force Recon Marine whose service during the Vietnam War placed him among the most respected reconnaissance leaders in Marine Corps history. Raised in segregated South Carolina, Capers overcame significant barriers to become a pioneering figure within the Corps.
During Vietnam, Capers led Force Recon teams on combat operations against Viet Cong guerrilla forces and the North Vietnamese Army, earning a reputation for calm leadership and tactical excellence under fire. He later served in Lebanon and participated in more than 50 classified missions across Africa, the Middle East, and Eastern Europe, contributing to sensitive operations during the Cold War.
Over a distinguished career, Capers earned multiple awards for valor and service, including the Silver Star, Bronze Stars with “V”, and Purple Hearts. His actions and leadership have led to continued advocacy for recognition at the nation’s highest level.
Following retirement, Capers has shared his experiences through speaking engagements and his memoir, Faith Through the Storm, offering insight into leadership, faith, and service. His legacy continues to influence Marines and special operations forces, reflecting the enduring impact of Force Recon and Marine Raider communities.
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.