In the 1970’s, Forbes magazine published a study of the most common backgrounds of the top five executives of each of the Forbes 500 largest corporations in the US. (I can’t find a copy online.) The prevalent backgrounds were former Marines, being from Brooklyn, and being Jewish. I recall thinking at the time, just beginning my corporate rise, that having all three I had it made.
Well, I rose high, but never “had it made.” Instead, I “made it” through the traits and training acquired from each of these backgrounds.
Well, again, you don’t have to be from Brooklyn or Jewish to be a United States Marine. Just be The Few, The Proud. Have the intestinal fortitude to be the best. Marines are still the most sought after proven performers and leaders for every walk of life.
During my time in the Corps, older timers used to regale us with stories of the “Old Corps” and how we had so much to live up to in order to be worthy to be Marines.
I live near many of today’s Marines at Camp Pendleton, and speak with them often. A few may, but it’s now rare to hear the young Marines regaled with “Old Corps” tales.
Today’s Marines are the finest product of the toughest training and -- overcoming the harsh conditions in Iraq and Afghanistan -- are our best and, deservedly, proudest professionals and warriors. Us older Marines recognize that.
From Tuns Tavern on November 10, 1775 to today, the Marine Corps has always been The Few, The Proud. We are a family who are always there for each other and for America. As long as there’s a Marine, there’ll be someone fighting for America, and overcoming.
Happy Birthday, brothers and sisters of the USMC. OORAH!
Here, from the 1950 film “Halls Of Montezuma” is the original movie theater trailer:
Here is this year’s official Birthday message. It is tradition for the oldest Marine present to get the first drink to toast, then pass it to the youngest, as we pass our traditions on and on:
Semper Fidelis, Always Faithful, is not just a motto. It's a way of life.
