The Few. The Proud.

November 10th, 2007 marks the 232nd birthday of the US Marine Corps.

The Marines can be a mystery to those who weren’t raised in the military culture. History books state that they are an elite group, something different from other military branches, but what really makes them different?

It's simple... a Marine earns the title. One can join the Army, the Air Force, or the Navy -- one earns the title of a United States Marine.

Once a Marine, always a Marine... the few, the proud.

 

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10 November 2007
A BIRTHDAY MESSAGE FROM THE COMMANDANT OF THE MARINE CORPS

Since the birth of our Nation, our liberty has been purchased by valiant men and women of deep conviction, great courage, and bold action; the cost has often been in blood and tremendous sacrifice. As America's sentinels of freedom, United States Maries are counted among the finest legions in the chronicles of war. Since 1775, Marines have marched boldly to the sounds of guns and have fought fiercely and honorably to defeat the scourge of tyranny and terror. We are Marines—that is what we do.

In the words of President John F. Kennedy: "In the long history of the world, only a few generations have been granted the role of defending freedom in its hour of maximum danger." Magnificent heroes fought in the wheat fields of Belleau Wood, in the snows of the Chosin, and on the streets of Hue City. Your generation bears this obligation now, and it is borne on mighty and capable shoulders, Just like the Marines at Belleau Wood—we are once again engaged in sustained operations ashore. Just like Belleau Wood—Marines have been given the toughest sector and have prevailed over a resilient and determined enemy—who has made us pay for our gains. Once again, as in any struggle, the road ahead is far from certain, but as Marines, we are not dissuaded by the challenges of war or the tough conditions of a warrior's life. Indeed, we don't just accept our destiny—we shape it.

On our 232nd birthday, to every Marine—those still in uniform and those who have served honorable in the past—be proud of who you are and what you do. Know that your citizenship dues have been paid in full; you are part of this Nation's elite warrior class. Cherish our families who offer marvelous support, abiding resolve, and steadfast patience. Remember those who have served and those who have fallen—their names are chiseled on the roll call of America's heroes. Those who have carried the battle colors of our Corps have forged our heritage, and today's generation of leathernecks chart our future. Carry the colors with pride; carry them with honor.

Happy Birthday Marines!

Semper Fidelis,
 
James T. Conway
General, U.S. Marine Corps

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You might want to see the following as well:

• USMC Commandant's 2007 Video Message
  Interesting from a historical perspective as well
• From the Halls of Montezuma from Buzznet Originals member Sstrokerj
  A visit to the National Museum of the Marine Corps in Quantico, VA
• Old Corps
  A personal photo gallery reflecting this Marine's experiences

Semper Fi...

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