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MSCoE CG and CSM Send: Happy 249th Birthday, U.S. Marine Corps

By Maj. Gen. Christopher Beck, Maneuver Support Center of Excellence and Fort Leonard Wood commanding general, and MSCoE and Fort Leonard Wood Command Sgt. Maj. Jorge ArzabalaNovember 6, 2024

(Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

On Nov. 10, we celebrate the United States Marine Corps birthday. For the past 249 years, our Marine Corps has answered the call to service both on land and at sea.

Established in 1775, two infantry battalions of Continental Marines were created to serve as security and landing units for naval vessels. These first Marines distinguished themselves in several important operations, including their first amphibious raid into the Bahamas in 1776, showcasing their rapid deployment capabilities and their unwavering spirit of service.

In 1834, the Marine Corps officially became part of the United States Navy. Marine detachments served aboard Navy cruisers, battleships, and aircraft carriers. In World War II, the Marine Corps was instrumental in the amphibious island-hopping campaign in the Pacific against Imperial Japan. During the Gulf War, Operation Desert Storm saw Marine task forces liberate Kuwait, and they were involved in combat in Somalia, Afghanistan, and Iraq.

In the current multi-domain operating environment, the Marine Corps remains essential to our nation’s success. The Marine Corps has set a standard of excellence for professionalism and warfighting skill, which has prepared them for their most difficult missions and has earned them respect both at home and abroad. Likewise, the team at Fort Leonard Wood is proud to train side by side with the Marines of the Ozarks. Their discipline, dedication to duty, and professionalism make all of us better!

Happy Birthday, Marine Corps, we are proud to serve with you!

“Semper Fidelis!” (Always Faithful!)

Victory Starts Here – Victory Through Skill!

Be All You Can Be!