Paul K. Hopper, a retired Colonel of the United States Marine Corps (USMC) and the National President & CEO of the Marine Corps Reserve Association (MCRA) whose military journey began with a passion for flying chose the USMC for the unique opportunity it offered him to become a Naval Aviator. This decision marked the start of an enduring relationship with the Marine Corps. Over the years, his connection with the organization deepened, leading him to become part of the MCRA’s leadership team in 2010, initially as the Treasurer, and then, as fate would have it, the National President & CEO in 2011.
The MCRA, founded in 1926 in Quantico, VA, has grown into a global organization. It serves as a vital support system for the Marine Corps Reserve, its members, families, and supporters, both past and present. As a registered 501(c)(19) Veterans’ Organization, the MCRA’s mission resonates deeply with Mr. Hopper’s personal ethos: to serve and advocate for the Marine Corps Reserve and its members, ensuring their professional development and advancing the interests of the total United States Marine Corps.
Looking ahead to 2024, Ken highlights several key events and objectives for the MCRA. These include participation in Modern Day Marine events, supporting The Basic School (TBS) Graduations, the Marine Corps University – Reserve SNCO Academy graduations, and the organization’s annual meeting in October. Underpinning these events is a commitment to grow the MCRA’s membership and expand its support to the Marine Corps Reserve.
The MCRA’s ethos of partnership and collaboration is central to its mission. Ken emphasizes the organization’s openness to partnering with any entity that shares its dedication to serving members of the Marine Corps Reserve. This collaborative spirit is essential for promoting the professional development of Reserve Marines and providing services beneficial to them.
Ken and other members like Capt. W.E. “Gene” Lednicky, USMCR, articulate a deep sense of belonging and purpose within the MCRA. Lednicky’s words, “I joined the Marine Corps Reserve Association to stay connected to Marines, the Marine Corps Reserve, and the Marine Corps. I joined the Marines to serve my country. The Marine Corps Reserve is simply the best organization to be a part of,” encapsulates the spirit of the association. Finally, Ken poignantly reminds us of the enduring legacy of the MCRA: “As long as there is a Marine Corps Reserve, there will be a Marine Corps Reserve Association.” This statement not only highlights the association’s lasting commitment to the Marine Corps Reserve but also underlines its vital role in the broader military community.
In conclusion, the Marine Corps Reserve Association, under the stewardship of Col Paul K. Hopper (Ret), continues to forge a path of service, advocacy, and support for the Marine Corps Reserve and its members. The association stands as a beacon of commitment and camaraderie, bridging generations of Marines with a common goal of preserving the security of the U.S.
