Two hundred and thirty-sixy years ago, on Nov. 10, 1775, at Tun Tavern in Philadelphia, Capt. Samuel Nichols, the first commandant of the Marine Corps, began recruiting the first two battalions of Continental Marines.
For those of us who've claimed the title of United States Marine, it's a special day. A day we reach out to our brothers and sisters we've served with, remember the years we spent together, how we were young once and say a little prayer for today's Marines - in whatever clime and place they may be.
One special tradition on the Marine Corps Birthday is the reading of General John A. Lejeune's 1921 birthday message. Even after 90 years it - especially the last paragraph - says exactly what it means to be a Marine.
Today is particularly special for me because not only was I a Marine, but so were both of my brothers. So, if you will excuse me, I've got a couple of phone calls to make. Semper Fidelis.
4 comments:
Thank you for your service, Foggy Dew.... I so appreciate it, and everything you went through on my behalf.....
I'm sure I've read this before (probably here), but I still get chills.
Thank you.
I highly recommend the Marine Corps service on Sunday afternoon at Washington National Cathedral, 4pm. Stuff of goosebumps...
Phnx - Thank you and you're welcome.
Elizabeth - Good writing, as I've said before, stands the test of time.
Suse - I've never heard of that before, but I'm going to check into it for #237. Thanks.
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