Happy Birthday Marines,

Today we celebrate our 240th anniversary. It is also the 100th anniversary of Parris Island and the 70th anniversary of the battle for Iwo Jima.

Our storied history continues as we again have Marines forward deployed around the world. We have much to be proud of, especially of those in leadership rolls. Our new Commandant and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff are standout leaders. They will do the job required to keep this country safe and strong in spite of the obstacles placed in their path.

Gen. Louis Wilson once said, “In the last analysis, what the Marine Corps becomes is what we make of it during our respective watches. And that watch of each Marine is not confined to the time he spends on active duty. It lasts as long as he is proud to bear the title of United States Marine.”

This is the true meaning of Semper Fidelis. Tonight we will raise our glasses to those who have gone before us and especially those who gave all.

Major G.E. Loveless

USMC (Ret.)