"ON NOVEMBER 1ST, 1921, JOHN A. LEJEUNE, 13TH COMMANDANT OF THE MARINE CORPS, DIRECTED THAT A REMINDER OF THE HONORABLE SERVICE OF THE CORPS BE PUBLISHED BY EVERY COMMAND, TO ALL MARINES THROUGHOUT THE GLOBE, ON THE BIRTHDAY OF THE CORPS. SINCE THAT DAY, THE MEN AND WOMEN OF OUR CORPS HAVE CONTINUED TO DISTINGUISH THEMSELVES ON MANY BATTLEFIELDS AND FOREIGN SHORES, IN WAR AND PEACE. ON THIS BIRTHDAY OF THE CORPS, THEREFORE, IN RECOGNITION OF THE WILL OF THE 13TH COMMANDANT, A REMINDER OF THE CORPS' HONORABLE SERVICE IS PUBLISHED AS FOLLOWS:
"On November 10, 1775, a Corps of Marines was created by a resolution of the Continental Congress. Since that date many thousands of men have borne that 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.
"The record of our Corps is one which bear comparison with that of the most famous military organizations in the world's history. ... Marines have won foremost honors in war and in the long era of tranquility at home generation after generation of Marines have grown gray in war ... so that our country and its citizens might enjoy peace and security.
"In every battle and skirmish since the Birth of the 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 ..."
"Long before we wear the uniform, long before the eagle, globe and anchor is etched on our soul, we sensed this special appeal that sets marines apart. Our ethos, values and character speak to our nation's heart." - Gen. David H. Berger, Commandant USMC
Listen to the rest of the commandant's birthday remarks here.