Photo Information

(From left) Lance Cpl. Mike Vandeveer, Sgt. Steven Killburne, Sgt. Edward Merz, Cpl. Nicole Tannehill., colorguardsmen with 3rd Battalion, 24th Marine Regiment stand before the audience at American Airlines' gate dedication ceremony at Logan International Airport, May 3, 2010. The ceremony dedicated gate B33 to the Marine Corps during Marine Week Boston, May 3-9, 2010.

Photo by Cpl. Jimmy D. Shea

American Airlines dedication in honor of Marine Corps

3 May 2010 | Lance Cpl. Brittany J. Kohler Marine Corps Air Station New River

The Albany Marine Band performed during an American Airlines gate dedication ceremony Monday at Logan International Airport as part of the weeklong festivities surrounding Marine Week here.

“[We] look forward to the exciting series of demonstrations that are planned for the next seven days to show off the Marine Corps’ many capabilities,” said Edward C. Freni, director of aviation for Massachusetts Port Authority. “I’d like to thank American Airlines for getting us off to a great start with this special dedication of Gate 33 to honor our U.S. Marines.”

During the ceremony, American Airlines showed their appreciation by presenting an eagle, globe and anchor to Col. Robert T. Durkin, commanding officer, 25th Marine Regiment.

“American Airlines has a long history of supporting our Armed Forces and veterans,” said Durkin. “The unwavering support of companies like American Airlines help us truly recognize the selfless efforts of the young men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces.”

The airline is no stranger to Marine Week. The airline supported last year’s inaugural Marine Week in Chicago with a similar gate dedication.

“The Corps is proud to call American Airlines a Marine Week partner and we look forward to celebrating many more Marine Weeks to come,” said Durkin.

The Corps launched the Marine Week experience in 2009 to provide the American public an opportunity to increase awareness of the Corps’ capabilities and value to the nation’s defense.