A
MESSAGE FROM THE COMMANDANT OF THE MARINE CORPS
Gen. M.W. Hagee
U.S. Marine Corps |
On
November 10th, 1775, the Second Continental Congress
resolved to raise two battalions of Continental Marines
marking the birth of our United States Marine Corps.
As Major General Lejeune’s message reminds us,
the ensuing generations of Marines would come to signify
all that is highest in warfighting excellence and
military virtue. Each November as Marines the world
over celebrate the birth of our Corps, we pay tribute
to that long line of “Soldiers of the Sea”
and the illustrious legacy they have handed down to
us.
This past year has been one of continuous combat operations
overseas and distinguished service here at home –
a year of challenges that have brought out the very
best in our Corps. In Iraq and Afghanistan, Marine courage
and mastery of complex and chaotic environments have
truly made a difference in the lives of millions. Marine
compassion and flexibility provided humanitarian assistance
to thousands in the wake of the South East Asian Tsunami,
and here at home, Marines with AAVs, helicopters, and
sometimes with their bare hands saved hundreds of our
own fellow Americans in the wake of Hurricanes Katrina
and Rita. Across the full spectrum of operations, you
have showcased that Marines create stability in an unstable
world, and have reinforced our Corps’ reputation
for setting the standard of excellence.
The sense of honor, courage, and patriotism that epitomized
those who answered that first call to arms 230 years
ago is still indelibly imprinted on our ranks today.
In commemorating our anniversary, let us strengthen
our ties to the past by paying homage to those who have
gone before us. As we honor the sacrifices of our wounded
and fallen comrades, our commitment to one another remains
unshakable. We take special pride in the actions of
the Marines now serving in harm’s way, and rededicate
ourselves to the service of our Nation and our Corps.
Happy Birthday Marines, Semper Fidelis!
M. W. Hagee
General, U.S. Marine Corps
MARINE SECURITY GUARD BATALLION
S/Sgt. Christian Jester
Marine Security Guard
Detachment - Montevideo |
Marine Security Guards provide security services to selected Department of State Foreign Service posts to prevent the compromise of classified material and equipment and to provide protection for United States citizens and United States property.
The Marine Security Guard Batallion exercises command, less operational control of these Marines, in that it is responsible for their training, assignements, administration, logistical support, and discipline.
As far back as 1800, Marines have found themselves as protectors of American lives and property. In 1835, we can find the first recorded instance of direct protective support of an American diplomatic mission.
Because of the increased intelligence activities of various foreign nations following World War II, it became apparent to Congress that a pressing need existed for around-the-clock protection of United Staes Diplomatic Missions abroad by alert and reliable American personnel.
Today, Marines stand watch over 139 Diplomatic Posts throughout the world, with more posts requesting Marine Security Guard Detachments every year.
