Tapia appointed to spearhead the search for every Idaho Marine

BOISE - Governor Jim Risch announced that he has officially joined the Governors Council of the National Museum of the Marine Corps, and appointed Ron Tapia as the state's liaison to the Museum in its efforts to locate all Idahoans who have ever worn the uniform of the United States Marine Corps.

The Museum, set to open November 2006, will be a lasting tribute to Marines- past, present and future- and share the Marines' unique role in shaping American history.

"I am honored to be part of the Museum's Governors Council and look forward to engaging all Marines from Idaho in this project," said Governor Risch. "Ron is a highly experienced individual with all of the tools one would need to take on this important roll."

Tapia has been working with veterans for almost 14 years as a Local Veterans Employment Representative in the Idaho Department of Commerce and Labor Office in Pocatello. He is currently a member of the American Legion, and was formerly a member of the Marine Corps League.

"I am excited about the opportunity Governor Risch has provided me to make a difference in something that I personally find so important," said Tapia."As a former Marine, it is an honor for me to be part of this Museum, so that all Marines, past and present, can be recognized for their sacrifices and service for their country."

The Governors Council is a 50-state initiative to locate every member of the United States Marine Corps, past and present, and their families, so that all Marines can be directly involved with the National Museum of the Marine Corps. It will also ensure that every Marine has the opportunity to be included on the Museum's Roll of Honor and participate in museum activities. Co-chaired by Governor Matt Blunt (MO), Governor Theodore Kulongoski (OR) and former Governor Mark Warner (VA), each member of the Governors Council nominates a liaison upon joining to spearhead the search in their states.

"We welcome Governor Risch to the Council and look forward to working with Ron Tapia to connect with all the proud Marines in Idaho," said Lt. Gen. Ron Christmas (ret.), President of the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation. "The museum is a true national treasure that will share the history and lore of the Marines with all Americans. We look forward to continuing our work with Governor Risch and the people of Idaho."

The National Museum of the Marine Corps is under construction on a 135-acre site adjacent to the U.S. Marine Corps Base at Quantico, VA, and will serve as the centerpiece of the Marine Corps Heritage Center. Construction of the building is more than 75 percent complete, with several major artifacts, including aircrafts, tanks, landing vehicles, and artillery pieces already installed. The museum's dedication is set for Nov. 10 with a public opening to follow on Nov. 13.

For more information on the National Museum of the Marine Corps, visit www.usmcmuseum.org, those Marines interested in becoming involved, please contact Ron Tapia at (208) 251-3364 or by e-mail at rttapia@myexcel.com.