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246th Marine Corps Birthday

Photo by Cpl. Alexis Schneider

Happy 246th birthday, Marines

9 Nov 2021 | Col. Curtis Ebitz Marine Corps Air Station New River

During the American Revolution, many important political discussions took place in the inns and taverns of Philadelphia, including the founding of the United States Marine Corps. A Continental Congress committee met at Tun Tavern to draft a resolution, calling for two battalions of Marines able to fight for independence at sea and on shore. The resolution was approved on Nov. 10, 1775, officially forming the Continental Marines to conduct ship-to-ship fighting, provide shipboard security and discipline enforcement, and assist in landing forces. Each year on this date, the U.S. Marine Corps birthday honors the history, values and memory of our heroes who have served, and rekindles the bond which unites generations of Marines. This day celebrates traditions of the Marine Corps with profound respect, paying tribute to the heritage of this distinguished service for all Marines past, present and future. 

So tomorrow, as we celebrate our Corps’ rich legacy, I’d ask that you reflect upon the sacrifices of those who came before us and made the ultimate sacrifice.  Let us not tarnish their memories and heroics by momentary lapses of judgement or poor decision making.  Guard against doing things that may bring discredit, or disgrace to you as a Marine, this Command or our Corps.  

Think about our core values of… honor, courage and commitment that cultivated a character defining us for a lifetime.  These values are not a set of rules that govern behavior; rather, they are our way of life. Ask yourself, “Am I living up to those values day in and day out?”  We are ambassadors for our Corps and are judged by how we act.  Now, look to the Marine to the right and left of you.  Are you dedicating yourself to uphold our core values and your profession by doing everything to ensure that collectively, we can accomplish our mission?

Think back to that feeling of euphoria when you earned your eagle, globe and anchor.  The pride, the joy and respect you gained from your family, friends and our nation.  I’d ask that you now take a moment think about what it means to be a Marine and re-dedicate yourself to our core values, your profession and the reasons why you stood on the yellow footprints to become a United States Marine.

Lastly, tomorrow at 7 a.m., Marines and Sailors of Marine Corps Air Station New River from multiple commands will conduct a station run on the flight line and runway to build esprit de corps and camaraderie. This is a rare and unique opportunity for all participants and will be a memorable experience for everyone. Following the run, MCAS New River will remain closed to flight operations in order to allow time for all Marines and Sailors to celebrate the Marine Corps Birthday. 

Semper Fidelis and Happy Birthday, Marines!

~ Col. Curtis Ebitz