Today is the 246th birthday of the United States Marine Corps.
Those of us who served and those of us who appreciate what Marines have always accomplished despite odds or suffering are proud of that birthday and what it signifies.
During the Iraq and Afghanistan commitments (the victories now tossed in the dumpster), the Marine Corps abilities to win were proven again and again in the worst combat conditions that Marines uniquely train for, have the attitude for, and the will for. The Marine Corps adapted and was used as a land army.
Now that China is increasingly competent and focused on taking over the Pacific, and is doing so step by step without much restraint, the Marine Corps is returning to its maritime roots. It has stepped up its training to even higher toughness and smarts. The Marine Corps is being missioned with a dispersed strategy to be on islands and ships spread across the Pacific and strike deathly blows back. But, there's a big problem there: the Marines will be sacrificed while the US leadership is not spending adequately to back the Marines up by building counterforces and lacks the political will to win. I am terribly saddened.
Will we get a new President who can smartly and determinedly stand up to lethargy and rouse patriots in America and Congress to be the overwhelming nation in readiness that will make war and sacrifice unnecessary? I pray so.
Honor, Loyalty, Courage are the Marine Corps values. May Americans also live those values. My son and I were honored to address the annual Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation's banquet. The theme was continuity of values. After I spoke about Honor and integrity, regardless the cost, Loyalty to country and comrades, regardless the cost, Courage to overcome obstacles, regardless the cost, my son spoke. He looked at me and said, "Yes, that's what he taught me." In a large room of seasoned Marines, my son brought them to their feet.
As you go about your day, about your life, take the time to pass on those American values. Especially to the young.
