Marines

Marine's Prayer

Almighty Father, whose command is over all and whose love never fails,

make me aware of Thy presence and obedience to Thy will.

Keep me true to my best self, guarding me against dishonesty

in purpose and deed and helping me to live so that I can face my fellow Marines,

my loved ones and Thee without shame or fear.

Protect my family. Give me the will to do the work of a Marine

and to accept my share of responsibilities with vigor and enthusiasm.

Grant me the courage to be proficient in my daily performance.

Keep me loyal and faithful to my superiors and to the duties my country

and the Marine Corps have entrusted to me. Make me considerate of those

committed to my leadership. Help me to wear my uniform with dignity,

and let it remind me daily of the traditions which I must uphold.

If I am inclined to doubt, steady my faith; if I am tempted,

make me strong to resist; if I should miss the mark, give me courage to try again.

Guide me with the light of truth and grant me wisdom by which

I may understand the answer to my prayer.

Amen

The History Of The Unites States Marine Corps

In the autumn of 1775, Congress planned to send a seaborne expedition to destroy the important British naval base at Halifax. Congress decided on November 10, 1775 to raise two battalions at Continental Congress expense not only for the Nova Scotia expedition but subsequent service. Resolved, that two battalions of Marines be raised, consisting of one Colonel, two Lieutenant Colonels, two Majors and other officers as usual in other regiments; and that they consist of equal number of privates with other battalions; that particular care be taken, that no person appointed to office, or enlisted into said battalions, but such as are good seaman, or so acquainted with maritime affairs as to be able to serve to advantage by sea when required; that they be enlisted and commissioned to serve for and during the present war between Great Britain and The Colonies, unless dismissed by order of Congress; that they be distinguished by the names of the first and second battalions of American Marines, and that they be considered as part of the number which the Continental Army before Boston is ordered to consist of.....

The Nova Scotia expedition collapsed, but the Continental Congress debated the apparent need of a national navy and considered marines an integral part of any ships company.

The Congress created it's own force of Marines, issuing the first commission as Captain of Marines to Samuel Nicholas of Philidalphia on November 28, 1775. The United States Marine Corps still celebrates November 10, 1775 as it's birthday.

SEMPER FI.

* This is an excert taken from The History of The United States Marines.

Written By: Allen Millett