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Two
hundred and twenty-nine years ago, the
Second Continental Congress established
a Corps of Marines to fight for a
democratic people's independence. Since
then countless Marines have raised their
hand and sworn to defend our Nation's
freedoms and preserve its liberties.
This year's anniversary again finds
Marines engaged throughout the globe for
the same noble purposes. The bravery,
heroism, and selflessness of all Marines
- wherever they are serving - have added
significantly to our rich legacy and
measured up to the high standards that
have come to epitomize all who wear the
Eagle, Globe, and Anchor.
The
current battlefields
of the Global War on Terror
are linked to the storied
campaigns of our past by an
unbroken tradition of proud
and loyal service. At New
Providence, Chapultepec, Belleau
Wood, Tarawa, Iwo Jima, the Chosin
Reservoir, Con Thien, Kuwait, and now in
places like Fallujah, Marines have
consistently demonstrated a dedication
to duty, a commitment to warfighting
excellence, and a devotion to each other
that has instilled a fierce
determination to overcome seemingly
impossible challenges. Our warrior ethos
is and will continue to be the Corps'
hallmark.
The
fortitude and sacrifices of Marines and
their families have been vital in
protecting our Nation from those who
would do us harm. Whether preparing and
sustaining our agile force or engaged in
battle, the esprit de corps,
tireless energy, calm courage, and
inspired leadership of Marines continue
to make a monumental difference in this
world. Your unselfish dedication and
significant accomplishments -
demonstrated repeatedly over this past
year in numerous places such as the
Anbar province of Iraq, Afghanistan, the
Horn of Africa, Haiti, and in the
crucial job here at home supporting our
deployed forces - are deeply respected
and valued by your fellow Americans.
Marines,
as we celebrate with friends and
families the founding of our beloved
Corps, you should take pride in our long
history of distinguished service to this
great Nation and its citizens. I ask you
to remember especially the sacrifices of
our fallen and wounded comrades.
Finally, rededicate yourselves to taking
care of one another and ensuring we
remain the finest warfighting
organization in the world.
Happy
Birthday Marines!
Semper Fidelis and Keep
Attacking
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