USMC BIRTHDAY
|
|
2014 USMC Commandant's Birthday Message
For 238 years, The United States Marine Corps has proudly served our great Nation with unfailing valor – bolstered by the enduring fortitude of our fellow Marines, our families, and our friends. This is why each year on November 10th, Marines from all generations gather together, in groups large and small, to celebrate the birthday of our Corps and to reflect on the proud legacy and warrior ethos we share. This is what unites us as Marines. From our first battle at New Providence to today in Afghanistan, Marines have always shown that they were made of tougher stuff – that when the enemy’s fire poured in from all angles, and the situation was grim, Marines unequivocally knew that their fellow Marines would stay behind their guns, fight courageously, and drive the enemy from the battlefield. We have always known hardship, fatigue, and pain…but we have never known what it is to lose a battle!
Marine of generations past built our reputation as the most disciplined and honorable warriors to ever set foot on a battlefield, and we have triumphed in every battle because our Corps has always focused on iron discipline and combat excellence. This is who we are…this is what we do! It matters not whether you carried an M-1, and M-14, or an M-16. It matters not whether you fought on a lonely island in the Pacific, assaulted a citadel in the jungle, or marched up to Baghdad. It matters not whether you are a grunt, a pilot or a loggie. What matters most is that, when the chips were down and things got tough, your fellow Marines could count on you to stand and fight…and fight we did!
This year, we celebrate the anniversary of several epic battles in our celebrated history: the 70th anniversary fo the 2nd Marine Division landing on Tarawa, the 45th anniversary of the Battle of Hue City, and the 10th anniversary of the “March Up” to Baghdad. Marines who fought in these legendary battles each made their mark upon the history of our Corps. They have passed a rich and illustrious legacy on to us – a much heralded reputation. It is ours to jealously guard, and it is up to us to make our own marks and thus proudly pass it on to the generations of Marines who will follow.
Sergeant Major Michael Barrett joins me in congratulating each of you. Because of you, your selfless service, and your many sacrifices, our Corps remains strong and ready to respond to any crisis. Throughout history, Marines have faced tough times and there will be tough times ahead, but there is no challenge we cannot overcome if we remain honorable and always faithful to our Nation, our Constitution and each other. Happy Birthday, Marines!
Marine of generations past built our reputation as the most disciplined and honorable warriors to ever set foot on a battlefield, and we have triumphed in every battle because our Corps has always focused on iron discipline and combat excellence. This is who we are…this is what we do! It matters not whether you carried an M-1, and M-14, or an M-16. It matters not whether you fought on a lonely island in the Pacific, assaulted a citadel in the jungle, or marched up to Baghdad. It matters not whether you are a grunt, a pilot or a loggie. What matters most is that, when the chips were down and things got tough, your fellow Marines could count on you to stand and fight…and fight we did!
This year, we celebrate the anniversary of several epic battles in our celebrated history: the 70th anniversary fo the 2nd Marine Division landing on Tarawa, the 45th anniversary of the Battle of Hue City, and the 10th anniversary of the “March Up” to Baghdad. Marines who fought in these legendary battles each made their mark upon the history of our Corps. They have passed a rich and illustrious legacy on to us – a much heralded reputation. It is ours to jealously guard, and it is up to us to make our own marks and thus proudly pass it on to the generations of Marines who will follow.
Sergeant Major Michael Barrett joins me in congratulating each of you. Because of you, your selfless service, and your many sacrifices, our Corps remains strong and ready to respond to any crisis. Throughout history, Marines have faced tough times and there will be tough times ahead, but there is no challenge we cannot overcome if we remain honorable and always faithful to our Nation, our Constitution and each other. Happy Birthday, Marines!
Semper Fidelis
James F. Amos General, U.S. Marine Corps Commandant of the Marine Corps |
|
How Do Marines Celebrate the Marine Corps Birthday
The Marine Corps birthday is one of the most important in the life of every man and woman who is serving or has served in one of the most distinguished US armed forces. The Marine Corps birthday, also known as the USMC Birthday is celebrated every year on November 10, following the creation of the Continental Marines that took place on the same day in the year 1775. Later, the Continental Marines were renamed as the U.S. Marine Corps, one of the most prestigious services that have taken part in every war that witnessed the involvement of the United States since 1775.
The Marine Corps birthday is certainly the most important day in the life of every Marine. On this day, the Marine Corps Order No. 47, Series 1921 is read out in every command, every year by Marines spread around the globe. The tradition was started by General John A. Lejeune and this document showcases the history, the mission as well as the most celebrated traditions of the Marine Corps. The act was formalized in the year 1952.
A cake ceremony is also held every year, one of the most ceremonial traditions of this division which is observed during the Marine Corps Birthday Ball each year. This ball was started in the year 1925 in Philadelphia. The cake ceremony also follows a very particular tradition when senior Marines pass the first piece of cake to their junior Marines, symbolizing the fact that they are passing on their knowledge and experience to their juniors. A weekend marathon is also held to mark this occasion.
The Marine Corps birthday showcases the long tradition and a rich history of male and female Marines who have dedicated their entire lives to the service of the nation. It is a group of a few proud people who have stood the test of time, working through their demanding training and nerve wrenching schedules that is bound by their oath to serve.
The Marine Corps birthday is certainly the most important day in the life of every Marine. On this day, the Marine Corps Order No. 47, Series 1921 is read out in every command, every year by Marines spread around the globe. The tradition was started by General John A. Lejeune and this document showcases the history, the mission as well as the most celebrated traditions of the Marine Corps. The act was formalized in the year 1952.
A cake ceremony is also held every year, one of the most ceremonial traditions of this division which is observed during the Marine Corps Birthday Ball each year. This ball was started in the year 1925 in Philadelphia. The cake ceremony also follows a very particular tradition when senior Marines pass the first piece of cake to their junior Marines, symbolizing the fact that they are passing on their knowledge and experience to their juniors. A weekend marathon is also held to mark this occasion.
The Marine Corps birthday showcases the long tradition and a rich history of male and female Marines who have dedicated their entire lives to the service of the nation. It is a group of a few proud people who have stood the test of time, working through their demanding training and nerve wrenching schedules that is bound by their oath to serve.
|
If you are willing to go to Marine Boot Camp, you should also start learning about these traditions and practices.
After all, you will also become a part of the few, the proud, the Marines. Therefore, knowing the family better will certainly help you a lot. Remember, it is all about pride and honor and every Marine lives for the same which is ably symbolized by the Marine Corps Birthday. |