Title
Recognizing, congratulating, and thanking the United States Marine Corps on the occasion of its 246th Anniversary.
Body
WHEREAS, 246 years ago, on November 10, 1775, the United States Marine Corps was established in Philadelphia at the Tun Tavern, when the Second Continental Congress authorized the "First and Second Battalions of Marines" to "serve for and during the present war with Great Britain and the Colonies." Thus was born one of the most elite fighting forces the world has ever known; and
WHEREAS, In the fabled words of The Marines' Hymn, "From the Halls of Montezuma to the shores of Tripoli; We fight our country's battles on the land as on the sea." Marines are prepared and able to fight at a moment's notice to win on land, sea, and air, in any climate and any conditions in order to defend the United States at home and abroad. Marines have served valiantly in our nation's conflicts, from the capture of British supplies at Fort Nassau during the American Revolution to Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan and the Iraq War; and
WHEREAS, Often the first in battle or at the scene of a crisis, Marines have demonstrated an unyielding commitment to protecting the lives of our citizens and the interests of our nation as our rapid response force, mandated by Congress to be "the most ready when the nation is least ready." From humanitarian relief efforts to combat operations, Marines have served as our first responders; and
WHEREAS, Marines have established a global legacy of bravery and service in combat operations like the Battle of Guadalcanal in the Solomon Islands, the Battle of Iwo Jima in Japan, and Chosin Reservoir in Korea as well as humanitarian missions such as Operation United Response following the 2010 Haiti earthquake and rescue and relief efforts during and after Hurricane Katrina; and
WHEREAS, Marines are defined by exceptional character, values, and leadership. Their motto, "Semper Fidelis," or "always faithful," speaks to the li...
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