Annual Crisp Family Super Bowl Veterans Event Honors 500 Service Members

15th annual event in Newport Beach brings together active-duty Marines and veterans for a day of celebration and support.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The 15th Annual Crisp Family Super Bowl Veterans Extravaganza in Newport Beach, California brought together 300 active-duty Camp Pendleton Marines and 200 veterans for a full day of camaraderie, appreciation, and tangible support. The event featured live entertainment, activities, giveaways, and meals to honor the service members.

Why it matters

This annual event organized by Crisp Imaging founder Gary Crisp has become an important tradition in the Newport Beach community, providing a meaningful way to recognize and support active-duty Marines and veterans. The event's growth over 15 years reflects the community's commitment to honoring military service.

The details

The Marines arrived from Camp Pendleton and were greeted by 200 community volunteers and veterans who spent the day mentoring the young service members, sharing stories, and reinforcing the bond between generations. Activities included live entertainment, wrestling, gaming, massages, and a live painting of the Super Bowl quarterbacks. Marines and veterans received numerous giveaways, meals, and cash drawings totaling around $50,000 in direct financial support.

  • The 15th Annual Crisp Family Super Bowl Veterans Extravaganza took place on Super Bowl Sunday 2026.

The players

Gary Crisp

The founder of Crisp Imaging, Inc. and organizer of the annual veterans event for the past 15 years.

Charles Cram

A 99-year-old veteran who participated in the amphibious landing on Iwo Jima in 1945 and earned the Silver Star as a Navy Corpsman.

Lt. Col. Jim Tucker

A 99-year-old Army Ranger Hall of Fame inductee who attended the event, bridging nearly a century of military history with today's active-duty Marines.

Dana Point 5th Marine Regiment

The Marine unit that arrived from Camp Pendleton to participate in the event.

American Legion Post 291

The Newport Beach post that hosted the event and provided veteran volunteers.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“This event has always been about making sure our Marines and veterans know they are appreciated. Fifteen years later, seeing the friendships and mentorships formed here is what makes it all worthwhile.”

— Gary Crisp, Event founder and owner of Crisp Imaging

The takeaway

This long-running event in Newport Beach demonstrates the power of community support and appreciation for active-duty service members and veterans. By providing a day of celebration, mentorship, and tangible financial assistance, the Crisp Family Super Bowl Veterans Extravaganza has become an important tradition that strengthens the bond between civilians and the military.