A Veterans Day Celebration with Gary Shepherd

A Veterans Day Celebration with Gary Shepherd 

Film screening - Semper Fi: One Montford Point Marine’s Story - Calvin C. "Coop" Shepherd 

Semper Fi: One Montford Point Marine’s Story is a moving, hour-long documentary. Originally created as a family legacy film, the project took on new depth when a son discovered that his father was among the pioneering Montford Point Marines — the first Black men to serve in the United States Marine Corps. Through personal interviews, historical context, and family reflections, the film illuminates the courage and resilience of a man who served his country during a time of segregation and racial injustice, helping to pave the way for future generations of Marines. 

Told in his own words, supported by family members and rare historical insight, Semper Fi stands as both a tribute and an educational tool. The documentary highlights the Marines of Montford Point, who — like the Tuskegee Airmen and the women of the “Six Triple Eight” — were later awarded the Congressional Gold Medal for their service and sacrifice. Produced by 3rd Floor Media LLC, the Philadelphia-based advertising and production company founded by Gary Shepherd, son of Marine Calvin C. Shepherd, the film continues to be used to educate, inspire, and honor the legacy of these unsung heroes who helped transform the U.S. military and the nation it serves. (Run time: 1 hour, 2 minutes, 41 seconds)

Gary Shepherd 

Gary Shepherd is an award-winning broadcaster, media executive, and community leader with more than five decades of experience in radio, television, and media production. His dynamic career has taken him from Detroit to Philadelphia, where he became one of WDAS-FM’s most recognized voices, achieving the station’s highest-ever afternoon drive ratings in the coveted 25–54 demographic. 

Gary’s talent and leadership have earned him the Hal Jackson Contributor’s Award as Broadcaster of the Year from the International Association of African American Music, recognition as one of Philadelphia’s “Men Making a Difference” by Congressman Chaka Fattah, and multiple industry honors including Best PM Drive finalist at the Philadelphia Achievement in Radio Awards and a pioneer award from 6abc TV. 

As Founder and CEO of 3rd Floor Media LLC, Gary leads a full-service advertising agency and production company whose client's past and present, include PECO, Philadelphia Foundation, the Pennsylvania Juneteenth Initiative, 6abc, United Bank and more. He has also served on the boards of the African American Chamber of Commerce of PA, NJ & DE, the Black United Fund of Pennsylvania, the Philly Ad Club and Independence Charter School. He currently serves on the Advisory Board of PHL Diversity. A natural storyteller, skilled moderator, and musician, Gary brings a unique blend of gravitas and warmth to every stage—making him a trusted voice for events, keynote programs, and master of ceremonies roles.