Educating the children of those who sacrificed all.
Our Mission
Thanks to our generous donors, MC-LEF currently establishes a $35,000 educational account for every child who loses a parent serving on active duty in the United States Marine Corps, Navy Corpsman or as a Federal Law Enforcement Agent. Since our founding in 1995, MC-LEF has awarded over $92 million in educational accounts and other humanitarian assistance to over 5900 recipients. We have only one paid employee and, therefore, the vast majority of our efforts are performed by a dedicated group of volunteers who run our various events.
Additionally, all officers and board members are also volunteers and together, we are extremely efficient in running our organization so that donor funds are predominantly used to accomplish our mission of Educating the Children of Those Who Sacrificed All.
As of April 30, 2024, we have awarded
$486,586
to 44 recipients this year
“Thank You, MC-LEF”
MCLEF will cover the cost of cranial orthotic helmets for children of active duty Marines or Navy Corpsman.
Upcoming Events
2024 Semper Fidelis Gala
On March 21, the twenty-seventh annual Sampler Fidelis Gala was held at Cipriani on Wall Street in New York City. Here are some photos from this very special event, and you can click the button below to view all photos.
"Heroes Among Us"
Medal of Honor Recipient Col. Harvey C. Barnum
Colonel Harvey C. “Barney” Barnum Jr earned the nation’s highest military honor on a chaotic battlefield long ago. Now this U.S. Marine veteran is enjoying the quiet life of small town Virginia. In his latest “Heroes Among Us” segment Greg McQuade introduces us to the man who belongs to one of the most exclusive fraternities where heroism and valor are a must for membership. Colonel Barnum is reflecting on a life well lived.
The 83-year-old Marine Corps veteran who splits his time between Reedville and Reston is one of only 61 living recipients of the Medal of Honor. Colonel Barnum earned his medal in Vietnam when he took control of his company of Marines after an ambush on December 18th, 1965. While under intense fire Colonel Barnum directed counter attacks and made sure wounded and dead Marines were taken off the battlefield. His heroic actions saved dozens of lives. Barney – as his friends call him – received the Medal of Honor two years later. The decorated veteran says the medal is more than just about what he did in Vietnam 59 years ago.