The Marine Corps community is built on strength, sacrifice, and shared purpose. We invite Marines, spouses, and children to express what the Corps means to them–through art, poetry, or essay.

Whether you're reflecting on personal experiences, family traditions, or the values the Corps stands for, we want to hear your story.

CONTEST CATEGORIES
Participants may submit entries in one of the following forms at any participating library branch:

• Art (drawing, painting, digital designs, sculptures, photography, woodworking, etc.). All physical items must not exceed 12" x 12" in size.
• Poetry (free verse, rhymed, or narrative)
• Essay (500-750 words)

THEME
"What the Corps Means to Me"

ELIGIBILITY GROUPS

• Active duty Marines
• Veterans and retirees
• Spouses of active duty or retired Marines
• Children of Marines

IMPORTANT DATES

• Contest begins: October 1, 2025
• Submission Deadline: October 24, 2025
• Exhibit: November 3-7, 2025 at the Patrick J. Carney Library
• Winners Announced: November 10, 2025

CONTEST GUIDELINES

1. One entry per person.
2. Submissions must be original and unpublished.
3. All entries must reflect the contest theme: "What the Corps Means to Me."
4. Essays and poems must be submitted as PDF or Word documents, either in person or at mccspendleton.library@usmc-mccs.org with the subject line "What the Corps Means to Me."
5. All physical items submitted must not exceed 12" x 12" in size.
6. No perishable materials may be used in the art submissions.
7. Please include a title for your piece.
8. All entries must include:
   1. Full Name
   2. Eligibility Category
   3. Contact Information (email and phone number)
   4. Brief Artist/Writer Statement (1-3 sentences about your work)
   5. Please indicate whether you would like the library to return your submission after the contest.

HOW TO SUBMIT

• Email your entry to: mccspendleton.library@usmc-mccs.org with the subject line: ""What the Corps Means to Me"– [Your Name]"

OR

• Drop off physical entries at any library branch. (Make sure your name and category are attached securely.)

Submissions will be displayed in the library and on the library's social media account.

JUDGING & AWARDS
Entries will be judged on:

• Creativity & Originality
• Clarity of Message & Relevance to Theme
• Emotional Impact & Expression 
• Technical Quality (for art)

PRIZES
Prizes will be awarded in each eligibility group.