Three institutions made me what I am today: the Roman Catholic Church, my family, and the United States Marines. The latter is turning 229 today, which is a cause for celebration among Marines around the world.
At the moment, Marines in Fallujah are celebrating by demolishing a snake pit of oppressive murderers. By all accounts, they are doing well, and one more chapter of our history is being written. The Marine Corps has never lost a battle in its entire history, and it will not now.
Long before I went to war, I thought about the kind of person I would want by my side if I were in combat. I figured I'd want a bunch of ruthless killers around. Not amoral murderers, but men who were at peace with themselves and well-trained to react correctly. A moment of mortal danger isn't the time for self-doubt or philosophizing.
It's a good feeling to be around hundreds of men whom you've never personally met, but who would crawl through a hail of bullets to drag your wounded body to safety. Which is why I'll forgive my brother Marines for their occasional crudities and failings.
Happy birthday, Marines. I wish you safety, and above all, victory over the unjust. I wish I could be there with you.
Thank you for your service, Eric. You and your fellow Marines are a credit to our country.
Semper Fi and Happy Birthday to all past, present and future Marines! OOHRAH!
Thanks, Gordon.
Eric, all past bitterness aside, let me seriously thank you for your service and wish a genuine happy birthday to the Marine Corps. May God grant them victory over evil in Falluja.
Happy birthday, Marines! Pro Deo et Patria!
Thanks, Nathan. God bless you.