By Sgt. Dean Gurule

QUANTICO, Va. – The Gary Sinise Foundation held a live concert featuring The Lt. Dan Band aboard MCB Quantico, May 22.

The concert, made possible by the United Service Organization Mid Atlantic Division, the Gary Sinise Foundation, and the Robert Irvine Foundation, drew in more than 500 attendees, including service members, their families, civilians and retirees.

“It’s an important thing to me to be able to say thank you and to be able to recognize the military for the importance of what they do,” said Gary Sinise, an acclaimed actor, musician and humanitarian.

The event served as a community gathering to show appreciation for service members, veterans, and their families. The event featured a free show and Mission BBQ dinner for everyone in attendance.

“I feel like I’m a beneficiary of what you all do,” Sinise, explained, who has spent several years supporting military personnel and their families through his foundation’s programs. “You volunteer to stand up for your country, and I want to stand up for you. It makes me feel good to know that there’s something I can do to support on many fronts through my foundation and through concerts.”

The Lt. Dan Band, named after Sinise’s character from Forrest Gump, has performed to uplift military communities worldwide for over 22 years; altogether, the band performed over 580 shows for hundreds of thousands of people.

“The Lt Dan Band isn’t just a group of talented musicians… they are a force of gratitude traveling across the country and the world to say sometimes what goes unsaid,” said Col. Jenny Colegate, the commanding officer of MCB Quantico. “Thank you for reminding us that service and sacrifice is seen and valued.”

This event marked the first time the Lt. Dan Band performed on MCB Quantico, bringing together all those who serve on MCB Quantico.

“To our Marines, Sailors, civilians and families, this evening is for you, for the long hours, the missed holidays, the deployments and the dedication you show day in and day out, thank you.” said Colegate.

The concert was more than music and a free dinner; it was an affirmation of support to the military community.

“What would we do if no one wanted to protect and defend us? I’d like to say thank you to our defenders and their families, and I suggest that if you see someone in uniform—military personnel, a police officer, a firefighter, or an EMT—just know that taking the time to thank them yourselves will mean a lot.” said Sinise. “They don’t ask for much at all. They are just doing what they signed up to do, but that little gesture of gratitude from a stranger will make their day.”

QUANTICO, Va. – Expect some noise this week if you live near Marine Corps Base Quantico, as a series of intensive live-fire training events are set to begin Tuesday, May 28, and run through Thursday, June 6.

According to a notice from Marine Corps Base Quantico, the exercises will kick off with a smaller-scale live-fire event from May 28 at 8 a.m. through May 30 at 4 p.m., including the use of fragmentation grenades, small explosive charges under 50 pounds, and weapons firing 5.56mm rounds and below.

Things get even louder starting June 3 through June 6, each day from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., with training that includes the 155mm Howitzer, mortar systems, missiles, rockets, robot maneuvers, rotary-wing aircraft operations, and live fire of 7.62mm and 5.56mm weapons. Aircraft movement and robot exercises are also part of the action.

The base notes that these exercises are essential to national security training for Marines, the Department of Defense, federal agencies, and law enforcement. With 43 live-fire ranges operating year-round, base officials say residents can expect occasional noise and vibrations depending on atmospheric conditions and terrain.

To stay informed about any rare schedule changes that may affect the area, residents are encouraged to follow Marine Corps Base Quantico on Facebook. Those with concerns or curiosity about the noise impact can visit quantico.marines.mil/Info/Noise-Advisories for more information.

QUANTICO, Va. – On May 19, community volunteers gathered at Quantico National Cemetery to plant American flags at the gravesites of fallen service members, preparing the hallowed ground for upcoming Memorial Day ceremonies.

According to a Facebook post from Quantico Marine Corps Base, the effort honors the men and women who served their country honorably and made the ultimate sacrifice in its defense. “The community comes together on Memorial Day to honor service members,” the post reads. Photos of the event, taken by Lance Cpl. Harleigh Faulk, show volunteers solemnly placing flags across the cemetery’s expansive grounds.

Quantico National Cemetery, located just outside the gates of Marine Corps Base Quantico, was established in 1983. It spans more than 725 acres and serves as a final resting place for thousands of veterans and their eligible family members. The cemetery is one of many across the nation that participate in flag placements to mark Memorial Day—a tradition that reflects national gratitude for military service and sacrifice.

This annual tribute has become a unifying act for the region, as families, military personnel, and local residents return each year to ensure no grave goes unrecognized during this solemn holiday.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is asking for the public’s help in locating a Jordanian national accused of attempting to breach Marine Corps Base Quantico in Virginia. The man, identified as an illegal migrant, allegedly tried to enter the base on May 3, 2025, raising national security concerns and prompting a broader investigation. (New York Post)

Editor's Note:

This is the final part of our three-part series exploring Virginia Railway Express' vision for the future. Thank you for following along.

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Editor's Note:
This is the first in a three-part series exploring Virginia Railway Express’ (VRE) ambitious System Plan 2050, which outlines a vision for how the commuter rail system could grow over the next 25 years. We'll break down what the plan means for the region, what riders can expect, and how the system hopes to pay for its bold goals.

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Looking for ways to make a difference in your community? Check out these volunteer opportunities and get involved.

Help Seniors with Snow Removal
Volunteer Prince William is recruiting snow shovelers, ages 16 and older, to assist senior citizens with clearing sidewalks and driveways after snowstorms. Volunteers under 16 are welcome with a parent or guardian.

• When: As needed through March 31, one to three days after snowfall
• What to bring: Your own shovel and the ability to lift wet, heavy snow
• Impact: Help vulnerable seniors access medical appointments and safely enter their homes
• Sign up: Click here and select “Respond”
• Questions: Email jhaw…@volunteerprincewilliam.org

ASL Volunteer Needed for Influential Women Awards
Prince William Living is looking for a volunteer fluent in American Sign Language to assist a deaf nominee during the Influential Women Awards.

• When: March 5, 5:30 to 7 p.m.
• Where: Sweeney Barn, 9310 Discovery Boulevard, Manassas
• Perks: Free ticket, includes a light dinner
• Contact: Email Diane at dpuigd…@princewilliamliving.com

Volunteer Teachers Needed for English Language and Literacy
BEACON for English Language and Literacy is seeking morning and evening volunteer teachers and substitutes for the spring semester. No teaching or foreign language experience is required, and training is provided.

• When: March 7 to June 25
• Where: In-person in Manassas and Manassas Park or online via Zoom
• Morning classes: Mondays and Wednesdays, 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.
• Evening classes: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 7 to 9 p.m.
• Sign up: Click here for a virtual information session
• Contact: Seth at 571.428.2524

Volunteer Opportunity for Fishing Enthusiasts
Brain Injury Services is looking for a volunteer to support a brain injury survivor in Prince William County who enjoys fishing. The volunteer will also meet with the individual once a month for activities such as coffee, walks, chess, or lunch.

• Learn more: Visit Brain Injury Services Volunteer Page
• Contact: Email mth…@braininjurysvcs.org or call 703.451.8881 ext. 232

Bull Run Watershed Spring Cleanup
The Bull Run Watershed Protectors are hosting their annual spring cleanup, and volunteers are needed to help remove litter from the stream valley behind Costco. Families, students, scouts, and other groups are welcome.

• When: March 8, 9 to 11 a.m. (Rain date: March 15)
• Where: Meet at Walgreens parking lot, 10671 Sudley Manor Drive, Manassas
• Supplies: Gloves, safety vests, trash bags, and grabbers will be provided
• Sign up: Click here

CASA Volunteers Needed to Support Children
CASA CIS is seeking volunteers, age 21 and older, to advocate for abused and neglected children.

• Virtual information session: February 26, 6 to 7 p.m.
• Contact: Email jpo…@casacis.org or call 703.330.8145 for the meeting link or alternate dates

Family-Friendly Day of Service
Catholic Charities St. Lucy Food Project is hosting a family-friendly Day of Service. Volunteers will help pack and sort food donations.

• When: March 29, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
• Where: St. Lucy Food Warehouse, 8426 Kao Circle, Manassas
• Requirements: Closed-toed shoes, ability to lift heavy items. Parental consent forms required for minors.
• Sign up: Click here
• Contact: Email Ian…[email protected] or call 703.349.0974

Sewing Volunteers Needed for Uniform Repair
USO Quantico Main is hosting a uniform repair event, seeking volunteers skilled in sewing to assist with minor uniform repairs for active-duty Marines.

• When: February 20, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• Where: USO Quantico Main, 3049 Bordelon Street, Marine Corps Base Quantico
• Bring: Sewing machine and basic stitching supplies
• Sign up: Click here
• Contact: Email hsul…@uso.org for more information

Volunteer at Willing Warriors Retreat
Willing Warriors in Haymarket is looking for volunteers to support their mission of providing free retreat stays and programs for wounded, ill, and injured service members, veterans, and their families. Opportunities include administrative support, event assistance, fundraising, and more.

• Contact: Email volu…@willingwarriors.org

Provide Meals for the Homeless
Streetlight Community Outreach Ministries is seeking groups to prepare and drop off meals for 30 adult residents at its hypothermia shelter.

• When: Nightly through March 31. Meals should be dropped off between 6:30 and 7 p.m.
• Where: Streetlight Hypothermia Shelter, 14716 Potomac Mills Road, Woodbridge
• Sign up: Click here
• Contact: Email thermal…@thestreetlight.org or call 571.677.2883

More Opportunities
If you are looking for additional ways to volunteer, contact Volunteer Prince William at 703.369.5292 or visit www.volunteerprincewilliam.org.

Thank you for making a difference in the community.

In the wake of recent terror attacks in New Orleans and Las Vegas, the Commander of U.S. Northern Command has directed all military installations to implement heightened security measures immediately, according to officials at Quantico Marine Corps Base.

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