I apologize subject is off Topic, but just a birthday wish for all Marines.
Happy 225th birthday U.S. Marine Corps!
Headquarters Marine Corps
Washington D.C.
10 November 2000
A MESSAGE FROM THE COMMANDANT OF THE MARINE CORPS
Today, around the world, in gatherings large and small, Marines will
assemble, as they have for two hundred and twenty-five years, to honor both
our history and the memory of those who have preceded us. It is fitting
that we do so, for it is our profound respect for our traditions and
reverence of our heritage that distinguishes us as a Corps of Marines. This
year is especially meaningful. Fifty years ago, the free nations of the
world united to stem aggression in Korea; twenty-five years ago, the long
war in Vietnam drew to a close; and a short decade ago, America and her
allies liberated Kuwait. The thread linking these disparate conflicts is
the Corps itself, and our performance on these distant battlefields added
new definition to our character while cementing our privileged place in
the hearts of our countrymen.
Just as the valor of Marines on the battlefields of Korea, Vietnam, and
Kuwait contributed uniquely to our legacy, so, too, do our actions today.
We continue to write our history, whether conducting critical operations in
the international spotlight or diligently attending to the equally
important, but unheralded work of taking care of Marines and their families.
We are, in fact, stewards of past, present, and future. We, therefore, must
remain mindful that our actions today-guided by the lessons of
yesterday-will determine the fate of the Corps tomorrow.
As the Corps -- family in the truest sense of the word -- pauses to
celebrate our two hundred and twenty-fifth birthday, it is proper that we
take great pride in who we are and the work we do. We are United States
Marines and for two and a quarter centuries we have defined the standards of
courage, esprit, and military prowess. On this occasion, we should also
remember that a grateful Nation cherishes our service and joins us in
celebration.
The spirit of the Marines of Korea, Vietnam, and Kuwait still animates those
who wear the eagle, globe, and anchor today. Their voices and those of all
our predecessors join in a familiar chorus and exhort us to uphold our
standards and honor our legacy. This we will do, for we have learned well
the lessons of our past and know that there is no substitute for vigilance,
strength, and resolve. Our Nation and the Marines of tomorrow can depend on
that commitment.
Happy Birthday, Marines!
Semper Fidelis,
J.L. JONES
General, U.S. Marine Corps
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