Every year Marines around the world celebrate the birth of the United States Marine Corps. These ceremonies range from fantastic feasts and balls in Washington D.C. down to the smallest group of Marines stationed anywhere in the world. Today, my red and gold brothers are probably eating a sand-covered cake in Iraq, Afghanistan and many other remote places around the world.
Most often, Marines are the proudest bastards you'll ever run across. Drive around town and look at how many military flags and emblems you see. More than likely, if you keep count, you'll see more Marine Corps emblems and flags than anything else (save for those communities near military installations, of course).
Today I will remember the ones who've gone before. Those who have, are now, and in the future will give the ultimate sacrifice to keep us safe at home. To the Marines, it's not about who the President and Command-in-Chief happens to be. It's not about politics. Down and dirty, it's about keeping our family and friends safe at home.
Please take a short moment today to remember not only the Marines and the sailors with them, but all the military members who are volunteering to keep us safe. Look at your husband, your wife, your mother and father, your children; and remember that no matter how you feel about any wars or conflicts we are in, that my brothers will always be there. They stand ready to stem the tide that would take our very souls. Join me as I raise my glass to them today.
On this, MY special day, I want to say "Thank you" to all those who have and will continue to support the Armed Forces.
Below is the Birthday message from the Commandant of the Marine Corps, General Hagee:
On November 10th, 1775, our Corps was born as the Continental Congress raised the “first and second battalions of American Marines.” Each year as we celebrate our birthday, we pause to reflect on the marines of yesteryear who fought in our touchstone battles and forged the modern Marine Corps with their courage, integrity, and undying commitment to their fellow Marines. Each of our storied battles is a link in the long chain that binds all Marines together — from the Continental Marines at Bunker Hill to the teufelhunden crossing the wheat fields of Belleau Wood. This chain binds us to the Marines on the crest of Mount Suribachi; it passes through the ice and snow of the Chosin Reservoir and the steaming jungles of Vietnam, and it anchors firmly today in the desert sands of Iraq.
This year’s celebration again finds many from our ranks serving with distinction in harm’s way. As we have for the past 231 years, our Corps is answering the nation’s call. I can report first hand that our Marines fighting on the front lines of the long war on terror are performing brilliantly, acquitting themselves with honor, dedication, and dignity in difficult and dangerous environments.
All Marines are making a difference. Regardless of where you are serving, you are adding new chapters to the legacy that was earned with sweat and blood on old battlefields. Just as previous generations of Marines shaped today’s Marine Corps, your deeds are molding the Corps of tomorrow. Our Corps has never been stronger, and all Americans are extremely proud of your magnificent performance and unwavering commitment to serve our Corps and country. With high caliber Marines like you, our future has never been brighter.
Another irreplaceable element of our success as Marines is the terrific support we receive from our families. Through the long hours, the exercises, and the combat deployments, their support is unconditional and firm. They give us love and devotion, providing us with the strength to drive on when duty calls. Today we should all acknowledge our loved ones for their patient, steadfast service.
To all who have earned the title Marine, to the superb sailors who serve with us in every clime and place, and to our precious families — I wish each one of you a heartfelt Happy 231st Birthday.
Semper Fidelis and keep attacking!
M. W. Hagee, General, U.S. Marine Corps
Today also marks the dedication ceremony of the National Museum of the Marine Corps and Heritage Center. Live streaming video of the ceremony can be seen on the Pentagon Channel. View it here: http://pentagonchannel.feedroom.com/iframe....jsp?ord=977519
To all - Semper Fidelis!
