I bet you are wondering why this blog starts out with the statement "To be 239 years old.... " Well, the reason is quite simple. Today represents 239 outstanding years of the Marine Corps! So, if you know a Marine, a Marine Corps Veteran, or a Disabled Marine Corps Veteran... be sure to wish them a happy birthday!!
I am a Marine Corps Veteran and I celebrate this birthday more than I do my actual birthday! I know a lot of Marines that are the same and treat this day as more special than even days you actually get a day off for! I think the thing that makes today so special for Marines is the since of pride you get when you become a United States Marines. The lengthy traditions of warriors sacrificing during major conflicts and leaving a mark in history. If you ever run into a Marine and actually show interest in the Marine Corps, I bet they would go on and on and on about of those traditions. I know I have had to try and humble myself about giving too much information to those who may not be interested. But, I think if you have ever been curious about the Military, and History.... Find yourself a Marine to talk too... They will fill you in with some awesome history lessons!!
Well, as you can see I have gotten a little winded just telling you about the Marine Corps birthday!! So, to wrap this up, I want to leave you with a couple of things to think about when you come across US Marines and US Marine Veterans. The first is their motto, Semper Fidelis - Always Faithful.... Second is my favorite presidential quote - "Some people live an entire lifetime wondering if they ever made a difference, Marines don't have that problem" Ronald Reagan following the Bombing of Marine Barracks in Beirut, Lebanon.
Semper Fi, Marines!