Area can get soggy after a rain. Please park in Visitor parking
spots. Bushwhacking is required. Watch for Muggles from afar.
The following is this year’s birthday message by Commandant
Gen. Mike Hagee
On November 10th, 1775, our Corps was born as the Continental
Congress raised the “first and second battalions of American
Marines.” Each year as we celebrate our birthday, we pause to
reflect on the marines of yesteryear who fought in our touchstone
battles and forged the modern Marine Corps with their courage,
integrity, and undying commitment to their fellow Marines. Each of
our storied battles is a link in the long chain that binds all
Marines together — from the Continental Marines at Bunker Hill to
the teufelhunden crossing the wheat fields of Belleau Wood. This
chain binds us to the Marines on the crest of Mount Suribachi; it
passes through the ice and snow of the Chosin Reservoir and the
steaming jungles of Vietnam, and it anchors firmly today in the
desert sands of Iraq.
This year’s celebration again finds many from our ranks serving
with distinction in harm’s way. As we have for the past 231 years,
our Corps is answering the nation’s call. I can report first hand
that our Marines fighting on the front lines of the long war on
terror are performing brilliantly, acquitting themselves with
honor, dedication, and dignity in difficult and dangerous
environments.
All Marines are making a difference. Regardless of where you are
serving, you are adding new chapters to the legacy that was earned
with sweat and blood on old battlefields. Just as previous
generations of Marines shaped today’s Marine Corps, your deeds are
molding the Corps of tomorrow. Our Corps has never been stronger,
and all Americans are extremely proud of your magnificent
performance and unwavering commitment to serve our Corps and
country. With high caliber Marines like you, our future has never
been brighter.
Another irreplaceable element of our success as Marines is the
terrific support we receive from our families. Through the long
hours, the exercises, and the combat deployments, their support is
unconditional and firm. They give us love and devotion, providing
us with the strength to drive on when duty calls. Today we should
all acknowledge our loved ones for their patient, steadfast
service.
To all who have earned the title Marine, to the superb sailors
who serve with us in every clime and place, and to our precious
families — I wish each one of you a heartfelt Happy 231st
Birthday.
Semper Fidelis and keep attacking!
M. W. Hagee, General, U.S. Marine Corps
Congratulations to CliffMcC31 for the FTF!!!!
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