The Northeast Nebraska Marine Corps Association ( NENMCA) celebrated of The Corps 250th birthday on Nov. 7.
There were a total of 71 guests, inclusive of 37 veterans. Chairman Bud Neel welcomed everyone.
The opening ceremony included Ron Albin, Norfolk, providing "The Marine Prayer." All joined in the Pledge of Allegiance. Lester Coughtry, Norfolk, read the message from Commandant Eric M. Smith, General USMC; followed by Steve Haselhorst, Pierce, with the reading of General John A. LeJeune's Message, with all Marines singing the "Marine Corps Hymn." Chairman Bud remembered longtime Association leader Marvin Werkmeister for his years of service to the NENMCA, Werkmeister passed away June 30, 2025. Messages were read from fellow Marines Kennth Timm, Norfolk, Paul Oltjenbruns, Bloomfield, and Cory Locke, Stanton, who were unable to attend.
A catered roast beef dinner was provided by R & D Catering of Allen.
Each year The Corps recognizes the oldest and youngest Marine in attendance. NENMCA Chairman Robert "Bud" Neel cut the cake with the first piece presented to the eldest Marine in the Command, Donald Schulz of Bloomfield, signifying the honor and respect accorded to experience and seniority. Symbolically, the eldest Marine present passes a piece of cake to the youngest present, Wyatt Martian of Wayne. Just as for 250 years our experienced Marines have nurtured and led young Marines who will fill our ranks and renew our Corps.
Each year The Corps has a "Toast to the Corps" in which Steve Haselhorst, Pierce, chose 10 fellow Marines in attendance and each read their respective toast. Self-introductions were given by the Marines; noting their respective guests. Special guests of Chairman Bud were Jerry and Starla Landkamer, Norfolk. Jerry is a current National Vice Commander of The American Legion, having been installed on Aug. 28, 2025.
The annual meeting was conducted by Chairman Neel. Secretary and Treasurer reports were provided in print for all and were placed on file upon approval. Election of Association officers followed for 2026. A motion was given and by unanimous vote the current officers remain in place; namely,
Chair Robert "Bud" Neel, Wayne; Vice Chair Steve Haselhorst, Pierce; and Secretary/Treasurer Ron Albin, Norfolk.
A few years ago the Association was given a wall clock with the Marine emblem and it became a "traveling clock." This year's guardian of the clock went to Chris Wieseler, Denver Colorado. He must bring back in 2026. Chris is one of the five Wayne young men who joined The Corps at the same time, at the same basic training and were assigned to Puerto Rico at the same time.
These men include Chris Wieseler receiving the clock; Kory Leseberg, Rick Haase, Joel Jorgensen and Dwight Schlutz, all of Wayne. They remain brothers of The Corps and in life. It was an honor to have them tell of their experience in The Corps.
Interested persons are encouraged to make plans to attend the 251st Birthday Party on Friday, Nov. 6, 2026, at the Norfolk VFW Club.
