The Commandant of the Marine Corps’ 2004 Birthday Message:
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.
This morning we celebrated the Marine Corp birthday with all the respect that it so greatly deserves.
At our little office in Austin, TX, we develop real-time tactical command and control systems to all four branches of the U.S. Military as well as several foreign governments. Of our 140 or employees, I’d estimate that roughly 60% have prior military experience. Of those, many have siginificant experience of 15+ years of service, to include many combat decorated soldiers from wars dating back to Vietnam.
My counter-part at work who sits in the cube right across from me served 20 years + 1 day in the USMC. A few weeks ago he commented that it was still hard for him to wrap his mind around the fact that he has now been retired from the Marine Corp longer than he served. Fred’s a crusty old Marine; he considers that a term of endearment and wears it proudly. He’s 63 years old now. And he’s the kind of man you are grateful was on our side back then, and even more thankful that he’s on your side now.
Our company cafeteria was decorated with old Marine Recruitment posters and photographs. The Marine’s Hymn was playing on the stereo while we all ackowledged and thanked the 7 Marines that work at our office (no such thing as an ex-Marine; once a Marine, always a Marine). Before we cut the cake, our senior ranking Marine (a Major, Ret. 1976) recited the Marine’s Prayer:
Almighty Father, whose command is over all and whose love never fails, make me aware of Thy presence and obedient to Thy will. Keep me true to my best self, guarding me against dishonesty in purpose in deed and helping me to live so that I can face my fellow marines, my loved ones and Thee without shame or fear. Protect my family. Give me the will to do the work of a Marine and to accept my share of responsibilities with vigor and enthusiasm. Grant me the courage to be proficient in my daily performance. Keep me loyal and faithful to my superiors and to the duties my country and the Marine Corps have entrusted to me. Make me considerate of those committed to my leadership. Help me to wear my uniform with dignity, and let it remind me daily of the traditions which I must uphold. If I am inclined to doubt; steady my faith; if I am tempted, make me strong to resist; if I should miss the mark, give me courage to try again. Guide me with the light of truth and grant me wisdom by which I may understand the answer to my prayer. Amen
Amen, indeed.
Happy Birthday Marines. Thank you and Semper Fidelis.
