Navy Federal Credit Union Honors 250 Years of Navy & Marine Corps’ Service

By Allison Stevens

This fall, Navy Federal Credit Union joined Philadelphians and visitors from across the nation to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the US Navy and Marine Corps. The festivities served as the “grand opening event” to mark America’s semiquincentennial—to be celebrated on July 4, 2026—and honor those who have served our country throughout its history.

As the birthplace of both military branches, the City of Brotherly Love is the epicenter of this fall’s schedule of festivities, including a massive parade on Oct. 13, the date when Congress officially established the Continental Navy 250 years ago.

To mark the occasion, thousands lined JFK Boulevard for the parade, an hours-long spectacle featuring floats, marching bands, military vehicles and special units from across the country. The celebration honored young people on the path to military service, including Naval Academy midshipmen, Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC) students and Sea Cadets.

“It makes us so proud to be from America,” parade-goer Pola Rychlinski told reporters. “It’s just beautiful. Look at the men and women that fought for this country.” Marine Veteran Herb Smith, 77, agreed: “Don’t get no better than this,” he told local news outlet WHYY.

Along the route, Navy Federal hosted a “Navy Ink” airbrush tattoo station, where participants received temporary tattoos of anchors, flags, bells and other symbols to show their spirit. The event paid tribute to the long maritime history of tattoos, which surged in the late 18th century and has since become a vibrant part of mainstream culture.

Another popular spot was Navy Federal’s old-time photo booth, where parade-goers donned period costumes and left with vintage-style portraits—keepsake tributes to early traditions that deepened connections with members and the broader Veteran community.

“These activations exemplify Navy Federal’s dedication to honoring military tradition,” said Joe Bock, Navy Federal’s Vice President of Brand Marketing. “Our support was more than a celebration—it was a tribute to the values, service and sacrifice that unite the military community.”

Weeks of Commemoration and Community

Led by the nonprofit organization Homecoming 250 and sponsored by Navy Federal, a full season of festivities kicked off on Oct. 9, with a parade of historic ships along the Delaware River, followed by events ranging from a wreath-laying at the grave of Tench Francis Jr., the founder of the Naval Supply Corps; to public ship tours of Navy vessels; musical tributes and academic conferences; and museum exhibits on naval and marine history. 

Festivities continued into November, with a commemoration to the US Marine Corps at Independence Hall, complete with a recreation of The Tun™, the hallowed tavern near the Delaware River where Captain Samuel Nicholas sought out “a few good men” at the first Marine Corps recruiting headquarters.

Supporters will toast the official birth date of the US Marine Corps on Nov. 10, with a morning ceremony at the resting place of Samuel Nicholas, the first commandant of the US Marine Corps, followed by a public commemoration at Independence Hall, a birthday lunch, an afternoon block party and an evening ball—all open to the public.

On Veterans Day, the Battleship New Jersey will host a public ceremony honoring the Marine Corps’ enduring values of honor, courage and commitment.

“This special season of celebrations reinforces our long-standing mission to serve those who serve,” Bock said. “As America prepares to celebrate 250 years of independence, Navy Federal stands proud to support the men and women who have defended our nation—yesterday, today and tomorrow.”

Learn more about this month’s events and Navy Federal’s support for the military community.