APPLETON, Wis. (WFRV) – As the U.S. Marine Corps marks its 250th anniversary, the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation is recognizing notable Marines across America, including a decorated combat photographer who grew up in Appleton, Wisconsin.
Russell Klika served as a Marine Corps combat photographer beginning in the 1980s. His work took him across the world, documenting military training, daily life, and operations. After this time in the Marines, he went on to work as a newspaper photojournalist before returning to military service as a photographer with the Wisconsin Army National Guard.
According to National Guard records, Klika later deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan, where he continued photographing soldier and documenting the realities of conflict. Over the course of his career, his work has earned military honors and recognition in national media outlets. He has also trained and mentored upcoming military photographers, including through the Defense Information School.
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Klika is being recognized as part of Marines Across America, a nationwide program honoring Marines who made lasting contributions both during and after their service.
“Marines have always made their mark on the battlefield, but it’s important to remember they’ve also made their mark in their hometowns and communities,” said retired Marine Major General James Lukeman, president and CEO of MCHF. “As we celebrate 250 years of the Marine Corps, we honor the significant contributions that Wisconsin Marines have made to our nation.”…