Happy 242nd Birthday, Marines!

Today, U. S. Marines are deployed around the world to “fight our country’s battles on the air and land and sea.”

The Corps, under General John LeJeune, institutionalized the celebration of the Marine Corps Birthday. In keeping with that tradition, Preston Stiner read the birthday remarks made on November 1, 1921 by the 13th Commandant of the U.S. Marine Corps, Lieutenant General John LeJeune. His message still rings true to every member of the Marine Corps today. Part of that message is as follows:

On November 10, 1775, a corps of Marines was created by a resolution of the Continental Congress. Since that date many thousand men have borne the name Marine. In memory of them, it is fitting that we who are Marines should commemorate the birthday of our Corps by calling to mind the glories of its long and illustrious history.

In every battle and skirmish since the birth of our Corps, Marines have acquitted themselves with the greatest distinction, winning new honors on each occasion until the term “Marine” has come to signify all that is highest in military efficiency and soldierly virtue.

To the Marines gathered at the Marco Island Brewery to celebrate the 242nd Marine Corps birthday, the term “Marine” was indeed a very distinguishing and special term.

They were part of “the few and the brave.”

A big Oohrah to Joe and Linda Mealey for organizing this annual event for the last six years. Their efforts were appreciated by everyone present during the celebration.

A big “thank you” to Frank LaCava and Jamie Shea, owners of the Marco Island Brewery for their generosity in providing the food for this special occasion.