Marine Week wraps up after four days of tributes and celebrations in Chicago

CHICAGO — The curtain has closed on Marine Week in Chicago after four days of military events from the city to the suburbs.

The closing ceremony, held at Navy Pier, drew hundreds of attendees.

“I like the silent drill. It was great. I served myself for five years in the Army. These are like my brothers and sisters in arms,” Derrick McKinley said.

This week, the Marine Corps have been hosting events in the Chicago area to celebrate 250 years of answering the nation’s call.

Each event showcased the talent and commitment of the men and women who serve.

“It’s been going great. We’ve had a great turnout, celebrating the honor, courage and commitment,” Caleb Ragaller, USMC Lance Cpl., said.

The celebrations kicked off Thursday with a flag raising ceremony at the Plaza of the Americas on Michigan Avenue.

The public has also been welcome to exercise sessions, wreath laying ceremonies and aircraft and vehicle displays.

“Basically, they got a feel for what it’s like to be a Marine, and they got a workout. It was cool to be with them,” Joshua Ginapp, USMC Lance Cpl., said.

At Navy Pier, the closing ceremony included a live performance from the nationally recognized Quantico Marine Band. There was also a traditional cake cutting.

Throughout the event, praises were high for the crowd for showing up for them this week.

“I want to thank each and every one of you who we have interacted with throughout this week,” Colonel Jimmy Wilson, the commanding officer of Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force, said. “Those engagements, those one-on-one interactions, they’re absolutely unforgettable. They’ve touched our hearts. They’ve made us feel loved by the country we serve and we’re deeply thankful to the city of Chicago.”

Marine Week officially ended Sunday night with a ceremony to lower the flags they raised Thursday at the Plaza of the Americas.