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History of Marine Corps

The United States Marine Corps (USMC) was established on November 10, 1775, by the Second Continental Congress, originally serving as landing forces for the U.S. Navy. Marines played vital roles in major American conflicts, including the Revolutionary War, World Wars I and II, Korea, Vietnam, and more recent operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. Renowned for their expeditionary and amphibious warfare capabilities, the Marines are often first to fight in crises around the world. Throughout history, the Marine Corps has built a reputation for toughness, adaptability, and a strong esprit de corps, earning the motto "Semper Fidelis"—Always Faithful.

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ABOUT Marine Corps

  • Birth at Tun Tavern: The United States Marine Corps was founded on November 10, 1775, at Tun Tavern in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, making it one of the oldest branches of the U.S. military.
  • The First Amphibious Raid: In March 1776, Marines conducted their first amphibious landing at New Providence, Bahamas, seizing supplies from the British.
  • Origin of the Term "Leatherneck": Marines earned the nickname "Leatherneck" from the thick leather collars they wore in the 18th and 19th centuries to protect their necks from saber slashes.
  • Mameluke Sword Tradition: Marine officers carry the Mameluke sword, a tradition dating back to 1805 when 1st Lt. Presley O’Bannon was presented one after the Battle of Derna in Tripoli.
  • Famed "Devil Dogs": During World War I, German soldiers reportedly nicknamed Marines "Teufel Hunden" (Devil Dogs) for their fighting spirit at the Battle of Belleau Wood.
  • Marine Hymn Distinction: The “Marines’ Hymn” is the oldest official song in the U.S. armed forces, referencing the Marines’ actions “from the Halls of Montezuma to the Shores of Tripoli.”
  • The Iconic Iwo Jima Flag Raising: The famous photograph of Marines raising the flag on Mount Suribachi during the Battle of Iwo Jima is one of the most enduring images of World War II.
  • First African American Marines: The first African American Marines trained at Montford Point, North Carolina, beginning in 1942, breaking the color barrier in the Corps.
  • Marine Corps Aviation: Marine Corps aviation began in 1912 with the first Marine aviator, Alfred A. Cunningham, who played a crucial role in the development of close air support.
  • Always a Marine: The phrase “Once a Marine, always a Marine” reflects the Corps’ belief in lifelong commitment and brotherhood among those who have earned the title.

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