CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. -- The official unveiling of the Lt. Gen. John A. Lejeune statue at the traffic circle on Holcomb and McHugh Boulevards took place in a ceremony here Thursday.
The event reflected the influence the former Commandant has on today's Marine Corps, said Marine Corps Base Commanding General Maj. Gen. Ronald G. Richard as he spoke at the event. He also talked about Lejeune's effort in starting the Marine Corps League, Marine Corps Association and several school systems within the Corps. In addition, Richard highlighted Lejeune's vision of the future Asian threat that eventually turned into World War II.
Various dignitaries attended the ceremony including Assistant Commandant of the Marine Corps Gen. Michael J. Williams and Lejeune's grandson, retired Col. James Blair Glenn.
"Today we have unveiled a statue recognizing a legacy, but (Lejeune's) greatest legacy is today's modern-day Marines," said Richard.
Former Marine Cpl. Patrick F. Taylor, who served in the Corps for approximately one year, provided funding for the statue. However, he could not attend the ceremony because of business-related responsibilities in his native city New Orleans.
"Even though Mr. Taylor spent only about a year in the Marine Corps, it has changed his life so much," Richard said. "He wants to say thank you by giving us this gift."
A similar statue, also funded by Taylor, stands in Lejeune's hometown of New Roads, Pointe Coupee Parish, La.
"A lot of nice things have been said today about my grandfather and I feel very proud to say they are all true," said a teary-eyed Glenn.