From the Commandant:

I extend the best wishes of the season to all on behalf of the detachment.  Hopefully, an enjoyable Thanksgiving was had by everyone.  As Marines, each of us has contributed to the success of this country that offers so much to all.  Perhaps you faced the challenge of combat or you served in a time of peace.  Either way, you were always an order away from going into harm' s way.  You have earned the title of Marine and it cannot be taken away.

Since 1947, Marines have taken on the mission of working to be sure that no child faces Christmas without presents.  The Toys for Tots Program has launched for 2023 and will be active until 9 December.  This is a tight window to collect and deliver donated toys.  The logistics of collecting, processing and delivering the volume of toys that are needed are challenging but not insurmountable.  Using the same energy that got you through the obstacle course and the drill field at Parris Island or San Diego, you will be able to coordinate, pick up, and deliver the needed toys in the established timeframe.  Collections that miss the deadline will be warehoused for delivery next year.  Much of your Marine Corps training has had harsh outcomes but this is one mission that can show that Marines contribute to peace also.  Questions on Toys for Tots can be directed to 508-877-5255 or judy5mc@yahoo.com.  The Metrowest Detachment has always been a leader in this effort and I have every expectation that this year will be the same.

Interest in joining the detachment is always welcome.  If you know of an honorably discharged Marine, FMF Corpsman, or FMF Chaplain, you are encouraged to bring them to a meeting or to have them contact one of the detachment officers.  Others who have interest in the welfare and mission of the Marine Corps can be encouraged to enroll for Associate membership.  As an organization, we offer many opportunities to contribute to the community in many ways.  Be open to approaching potential members.

The next meeting is scheduled for December 19 at 7:00 PM at the Natick AMVETS building at 1 Superior Drive in Natick.  We look forward to seeing you there.

ei

From the Commandant:

Marines, 

As we approach the celebration of the Marine Corps birthday, we are proud to share the annual birthday message from the current Commandant of the Marine Corps and General Lejeune, who defined the standards for the birthday celebration.  Each of us shares in the legacy that has been provided over 248 years of history and sacrifice.  Whether you served in war or peace, you earned the right to wear the Eagle Globe and Anchor and to call yourself Marine. We are the few and the proud.  

Happy Birthday Marines,

Mac

itle: Marine Corps Birthday Message

Category: Marine Corps Order No. 47 (Series 1921)

Author/Presenter: Major General John A Lejeune, USMC Commandant of the Marine Corps

Date: 1 November 1921

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759. The following will be read to the command on the 10th of November, 1921, and hereafter on the 10th of November of every year. Should the order not be received by the 10th of November, 1921, it will be read upon receipt.

(1) On November 10, 1775, a Corps of Marines was created by a resolution of Continental Congress. Since that date many thousand men have borne the name "Marine". In memory of them it is fitting that we who are Marines should commemorate the birthday of our corps by calling to mind the glories of its long and illustrious history.

(2) The record of our corps is one which will bear comparison with that of the most famous military organizations in the world's history. During 90 of the 146 years of its existence the Marine Corps has been in action against the Nation's foes. From the Battle of Trenton to the Argonne, Marines have won foremost honors in war, and in the long eras of tranquility at home, generation after generation of Marines have grown gray in war in both hemispheres and in every corner of the seven seas, that our country and its citizens might enjoy peace and security.

(3) In every battle and skirmish since the birth of our corps, Marines have acquitted themselves with the greatest distinction, winning new honors on each occasion until the term "Marine" has come to signify all that is highest in military efficiency and soldierly virtue.

(4) This high name of distinction and soldierly repute we who are Marines today have received from those who preceded us in the corps. With it we have also received from them the eternal spirit which has animated our corps from generation to generation and has been the distinguishing mark of the Marines in every age. So long as that spirit continues to flourish Marines will be found equal to every emergency in the future as they have been in the past, and the men of our Nation will regard us as worthy successors to the long line of illustrious men who have served as "Soldiers of the Sea" since the founding of the Corps.

John A. Lejeune,
Major General Commandant

75705-21

10 November 2023

A MESSAGE FROM THE COMMANDANT OF THE MARINE CORPS

             For 248 years, Marines have earned a reputation as the most disciplined and lethal warfighters in the world. This legacy of honor, courage, and commitment passed on to us was paid for in sweat, blood, and sacrifice. From Belleau Wood to Inchon and Tarawa to Sangin, Marines have stepped forward to defend our Constitution when others either could not or would not. Our history is filled with heroes like Chief Warrant Officer 4 Hershel "Woody" Williams, Private First Class Hector Cafferata Jr., Sergeant Major Dan Daly, and thousands of others who performed acts of bravery which went unseen in the heat of battle. We stand on the shoulders of these Marines, and we owe it to them to earn our title "Marine" each and every day.

             Marines have given, and have been willing to give, their lives for Country and Corps in every fight our Nation has entered. Our actions turned back the tide of tyranny in Europe during the Great War, defeated fascism in Asia during World War II, fought for democracy in Korea and Vietnam, and offered the hope of self-determination in the Middle East. We go to war whenever our Nation calls, and in the interwar periods we train, we prepare, and we innovate. We have chosen a life of service and sacrifice — an honorable life that has meaning. We sacrifice so our fellow citizens don't have to, and we seek nothing in return but a chance to be first to fight. Most will never understand why we choose to attack when others do not, why we revel in being covered in mud, why we snap to attention when "The Marines' Hymn" is played, or why we say, "Ooh Rah." We understand it, and this message is for us, for the Marines.

             As Marines, we live on a war footing because someone must. This means that we ruthlessly adhere to our standards of excellence — Marine standards — as we know this will best prepare us for the wars of the future. Our high standards are a prerequisite of professional warfighting, and how we keep our honor clean in the cauldron of combat. They prepare us for the most difficult mission there is: fighting from and returning to the sea. Most importantly they shape our unique Marine culture which is respected at home and across the globe.

             Sergeant Major Ruiz and I are proud of all that you have done this past year to protect and enhance our reputation as America's best warriors. We hope you know that we will be with you every step of the way as we prepare for the fights ahead. We ask that every Marine - active, reserve, and veteran - honor the legacy of those who went before us by continuing to uphold our high standards.

             Protect your fellow Marines and our shared legacy. Happy Birthday Marines!