Happy 233rd Birthday Marines!

[phaeden 0]

I just wanted to wish all Marines out there a Happy 233rd Birthday!

Semper Fi!

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UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS BIRTHDAY MESSAGE - 10 NOVEMBER 2008

1.  During the summer of 1982, in the wake of a presidential directive, Marines went ashore at Beirut, Lebanon. Fifteen months later, on 23 October 1983, extremists struck the first major blow against American forces - starting this long war on terrorism.  On that Sunday morning, a suicide bomber drove an explosive-laden truck into the headquarters of battalion landing team 1/8, destroying the building and killing 241 Marines and Corpsmen.

2.  Extremists have attacked our nation, at home and abroad, numerous times since that fateful day in Beirut. Their aim has always been the same - to kill as many innocent Americans as possible. The attacks of 11 September 2001 changed our nation forever, and our president has resolved that this nation will not stand idle while murderous terrorists plot their next strike. Marines will continue to take the fight to the enemy - hitting them on their own turf, crushing them when they show themselves, and finding them where they hide.  

3.  Only a few Americans choose the dangerous, but necessary, work of fighting our nation's enemies.  When our chapter of history is written, it will be a saga of a selfless generation of Marines who were willing to stand up and fight for our nation; to defend those who could not defend themselves; to thrive on the hardship and sacrifice expected of an elite warrior class; to march to the sound of the guns; and to ably shoulder the legacy of those Marines who have gone before.

4.  On our 233rd birthday, first remember those who have served and those "angels" who have fallen - our reputation was built on their sacrifices.  Remember our families; they are the unsung heroes whose support and dedication allow us to answer our nation's call. Finally, to all Marines and sailors, know that I am proud of you and

what you do.  Your successes on the battlefield have only added to our illustrious history.  General Victor H. "Brute" Krulak said it best when he wrote, "... The United States does not need a Marine Corps ... The United States wants a Marine Corps."  Your actions, in Iraq and Afghanistan, and across the globe, are at the core of why America loves her Marines.

5.  Happy birthday, Marines and Semper Fidelis! James t. Conway, General, U.S. Marine Corps, Commandant of the Marine Corps

The Marines' Hymn

From the halls of Montezuma, to the shores of Tripoli,

We fight our country's battles in the air, on land and sea.

First to fight for right and freedom, and to keep our honor clean;

We are proud to claim the title of United States Marine.

Our Flag's unfurled to every breeze from dawn to setting sun.

We have fought in every clime and place, where we could take a gun.

In the snow of far off northern lands and in sunny tropic scenes,

You will find us always on the job, the United States Marines.

Here's health to you and to our Corps, which we are proud to serve.

In many a strife we've fought for life and never lost our nerve.

If the Army and the Navy ever look on heaven's scenes,

they will find the streets are guarded by United States Marines.

The Marines' 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.

[Blackhawk 0]

Whoa! The 233rd birthday of the USMC, who cares? if it's the 250th or the 300th that's ok to celebrate.

But I think we should be concentrating on Remembrance at the moment instead of celebrating.

[Walking_Death 0]

Wait, how was the 1983 barrack bombings an act of terrorism.

Terrorism is to be classified as non-combat persons being attacked.

The U.S. sided with the Maronites and was active in fighting in Lebanon.

[scubaman3D 0]

I knew this was going to turn into some bullshit debate.

Hats off to the Marines.

Now, on to business. No, terrorism doesn't necessitate the attack of civilians, only.

[Harnu 0]

Whoa! The 233rd birthday of the USMC, who cares? if it's the 250th or the 300th that's ok to celebrate.

Because reflecting on your organization, sacrifices it's members have made, it's history, etc., isn't something to think about once every fifty years.

Semper Fi.

[0311 0]

I'm just checking the site today. And yes happy birthday to us.

Too bad I will be missing the birthday ball this year.

Semper Fi

0311

[kronzky 5]

There are LOTS of worthwhile organizations in the world - military and otherwise.

If we would start a birthday thread on each one of them, every single year, we could dedicate a whole forum to that.

But, feel free to post one on the 250th...