John Adams handwrote the resolution that the Second Continental Congress passed on Friday, November 10, 1775, that authorized “two Battalions of Marines be raised” for service with the Continental Navy.

Captain Samuel Nicholas appointed Robert Mullan, the owner of Tun Tavern in Philadelphia who recruited the first Marines who were attached to the frigate Alfred. In 1776, before the Declaration of Independence was even signed, Major Samuel Nicholas, the first Commandant of the Continental Marines led 210 Marines in conducting the first amphibious landing to raid Nassau, Bahamas. The Marines captured vital supplies including guns, mortars, and gunpowder.

Since the early days of the Marine Corps, Marines have always been faithful and upheld the highest traditions of the Corps. Traditions and history are huge parts of the Marine Corps from the yellow footprints at Recruit Training, to the Commandant’s birthday message and cake on our special day. Every Marines follows in the footsteps of those who have served before us and uphold the values, tradition and commitment of service to our nation for those future Marines that will follow.  Lt. General Chesty Puller had so many famous quotes but even during his time in the Marine Corps the idea of changes between old and new Marines in the Corps came up. Chesty famously stated, “Old breed? New breed? There’s not a damn bit of difference so long as it’s the Marine breed.”

Alfred Cunningham, Dan Daly, Smedley Butler, John Basilone, Eugene Sledge, Merritt Edison, Chesty Puller, Charles Johnson, Jerry Humble, Brad Kasal, Dakota Meyer, Kyle Carpenter, Jonathan Yale, Jordan Haerter, James Mattis, are just a few legendary Marines.

And others have gone on ahead of us to include those Marines Peacekeepers who lost their lives in Beirut at the Marine Barracks and at the Abbey Gate in Afghanistan. I also will remember Cpl. Maldonaldo, Captain Musselman, Sgt. Montoya, and Cpl. Leroy Joyner-all stand up Marines who upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps. On this birthday, I will remember all the great legendary Marines I have had the honor to serve with, train, support and know. Semper Fidelis! Happy Birthday Marines!