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The Marine Corps Heritage Foundation is pleased to announce Col Rod Andrew Jr., Ph.D USMCR (Ret) of Central, South Carolina as a recipient of two of the Foundation’s 2026 Annual Awards. He will be honored at the Annual Awards Dinner on April 25 at the National Museum of the Marine Corps in Triangle, Virginia.
Andrew received The General Roy S. Geiger Award for his article “‘Flying Leathernecks’: The Public Debate over Close Air Support and the Future of the U.S. Marine Corps, 1945–1952.” He also received The General Wallace M. Greene, Jr. Award for his non-fiction book “The Marines' Fight for Survival: War, Politics, and Institutional Crisis, 1945-1952.”
Andrew is a retired Colonel in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve and a Professor of History at Clemson University. His military career included key leadership roles and operational service, earning him several notable decorations, while his academic work includes multiple books and recognition for excellence in teaching. His scholarship and service reflect a lifelong commitment to preserving and interpreting Marine Corps history.
Andrew is among 20 recipients recognized this year for their exceptional portrayal of Marine Corps history, traditions, and culture across a range of disciplines, including photography, documentary filmmaking, journalism, poetry, nonfiction, and fiction writing.
"Through their exceptional talent and authenticity, these outstanding writers, artists, and photographers explore the rich history, traditions, and culture of the Marine Corps,” said MajGen James W. Lukeman, USMC (Ret), the Foundation's President and CEO. "We are privileged to highlight their remarkable work at our Foundation's Annual Awards and hope that their example inspires others to tell the story of our Marine Corps.”
Annual Awards recipients are selected by a panel of accomplished Marines and civilian experts. Past honorees include celebrated novelists, bestselling authors, national columnists, network producers, and active-duty Marines whose work reflects a deep commitment to accurately telling the Marine Corps story, often through firsthand experience in challenging and dangerous environments.
Each award recipient receives a gold medallion, a commemorative brick along the Semper Fidelis Memorial Park pathway adjacent to the National Museum of the Marine Corps, and a cash prize.
The full list of award recipients is available on the Foundation’s website. For interviews with award recipients, please contact Haylee Sigafoose at hsigafoose@susandavis.com.
