Press Release

November 10, 2014
Cardin Offers Birthday Greetings to the U.S. Marine Corps

BALTIMORE – U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.) issued the following statement to commemorate the founding of United States Marine Corps, which occurred on November 10, 1775.

 

“In honor of the U.S. Marine Corps’ birthday, I want to offer my most sincere thanks to Marines past and present. For 239 years the Marine Corps and Marine Corps families have made innumerable sacrifices in defense of our nation,” Senator Cardin said.

 

On November 10th, 1775, the Second Continental Congress established the Continental Marines with the decree, “That two battalions of Marines be raised consisting of one Colonel, two lieutenant-colonels, two majors and other officers, as usual in other regiments; that they consist of an equal number of privates as with other battalions, that particular care be taken that no persons be appointed to offices, or enlisted into said battalions, but such as are good seamen, or so acquainted with maritime affairs as to be able to serve for and during the present war with Great Britain and the Colonies; unless dismissed by Congress; that they be distinguished by the names of the First and Second Battalions of Marines.”

 

“The U.S. Marine Corps is one of the most revered and respected military units in history,” Senator Cardin continued. “From the Battle of Trenton to the Battle of Iwo Jima, Marines have distinguished themselves as a matchless sea and land fighting force. Generations of Marines have endured conflict around the globe and at sea to ensure our nation enjoys peace and security. The title ‘United States Marine’ is and will always be synonymous with sacrifice, dedication and courage that is beyond reproach. As President Ronald Reagan famously said, ‘Some people live an entire lifetime and wonder if they have made a difference to the world, but the Marines don’t have that problem.’

 

“On this 239th Birthday of the Marine Corps, on behalf of the United States Senate and the State of Maryland, I send my heartfelt thanks to those who have served and are serving under the banner of the United States Marines,” Senator Cardin concluded.

 

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