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 Utah, a state rich with Marine Corps pride and powerful stories of post-service impact.
Martial Arts Entrepreneur | Parowan, Utah
Dwight Hargett is a United States Marine Corps veteran whose life has been shaped by discipline, resilience, and service. Serving in the Marine infantry, he developed the ability to lead under pressure, remain calm in demanding situations, and push beyond perceived limits—lessons that would guide his life long after leaving the Corps.
After his military service, Hargett built on his experience in the Marine Corps Martial Arts Program (MCMAP), dedicating nearly two decades to mastering multiple disciplines, including Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, judo, Muay Thai, boxing, and Kung Fu. A competitive athlete and respected brown belt under Atos Las Vegas, he has earned medals at major national competitions through relentless training and focus.
Committed to strengthening his community, Hargett founded Patriot Jiu Jitsu in Parowan, Utah, creating a supportive space where students build confidence, character, and leadership. He also launched the Winter Ready Kids Camp, teaching youth wilderness survival, self-defense, and resilience skills. Through partnerships with local schools, universities, and law enforcement, Hargett continues to pass on the Marine Corps values of teamwork, accountability, and never leaving anyone behind.
For Dwight Hargett, service didn’t end with the uniform—it became a lifelong mission.
Accomplished Paralympian | Salt Lake City, Utah
Annika Hutsler is a United States Marine Corps veteran whose journey reflects resilience, determination, and strength. She joined the Marine Corps with aspirations of a long career, but just one year into service, a tumor in her right foot led to a below-the-knee amputation. While assigned to Wounded Warrior Battalion–West, she faced the challenge of recovery and redefining her purpose.
Hutsler quickly turned adversity into momentum. Just eight weeks after her amputation, she competed in the 2019 Department of Defense Warrior Games, earning two silver medals. She has since competed in alpine skiing, track and field, and snowboarding, with her sights set on representing Team USA at the 2026 Paralympic Games in alpine skiing.
Now based in Utah, Hutsler trains in the Wasatch Range and works closely with the National Ability Center in Park City, embracing the state as both her training ground and home. Beyond competition, she is an advocate and mentor through the Sisters in Sports Foundation, supporting and empowering women with disabilities.
Driven by the Marine Corps values instilled in her, Annika Hutsler continues to inspire through sport, mentorship, and her example—proving that setbacks can become powerful new beginnings.
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.
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.