A house RESOLUTION

 

to congratulate the united states marine corps upon the occasion of its two hundred fiftieth anniversary and to commend the United States Marine Corps for its many years of dedicated service to the state of south carolina and the united states of america. 

 

Whereas, the members of the South Carolina House of Representatives are pleased to recognize the United States Marine Corps as it celebrates this important milestone; and

 

Whereas, for two and a half centuries, the Marine Corps has stood as a living force of American courage, discipline, and unity. From the birth of our republic to the challenges of the modern world, the Marines have always proven that they can accomplish any task, defend any shore, and defeat any enemy; and

 

Whereas, the Marine Corps was born in the fires of revolution when the Second Continental Congress established the Continental Marines by resolution on November 10, 1775. From the first combat action at Nassau in 1776, Marines have proven to be ruthless in battle, and lethal guardians of liberty and justice. From that moment onward, the Marines have helped shape the destiny of our nation, fighting beside Andrew Jackson at the Battle of New Orleans, standing firm in the trenches of World War I at Belleau Wood, and seizing victory after victory across the Pacific at Guadalcanal, Iwo Jima, and Okinawa. They confronted communism in Korea and Vietnam, upheld the right to self-government in the Persian Gulf, and brought justice to our enemies in the deserts and mountains of the Global War on Terror; and

 

Whereas, Marines protect our embassies abroad, and ensure our federal law enforcement can do their jobs here at home. Wherever liberty has been threatened, the Marine Corps has answered with strength, courage, and unyielding honor. Today, the United States Marine Corps continues to stand as the shield and spear of our republic. Their courage in combat, disciplined precision, and relentless endurance are admired around the world, sure in the knowledge that true peace is secured only by superior strength; and

 

Whereas, from the halls of Montezuma to the shores of Tripoli, the United States Marines have time and again carved their names into history. Their motto, Semper Fidelus, meaning always faithful, speaks to the enduring strength of the corps and to the greatness of the country they defend - one nation, under God, steadfast, and forever free; and

 

Whereas, the members of the South Carolina House of Representatives express deep appreciation for the courage and dedication of the steadfast men and women of the Marine Corps who have carried the defense of our country upon their shoulders with valor and devotion. Now therefore,

 

Be it resolved by the House of Representatives:

 

That the members of the South Carolina House of Representatives, by this resolution, congratulate the United States Marine Corps upon the occasion of its two hundred fiftieth anniversary and commend the United States Marine Corps for its many years of dedicated service to the State of South Carolina and the United States of America.

 

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be presented to the Commandant of the Marine Corps, General Eric M. Smith.

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