Global Security, Privacy, & Risk Management

Happy B-Day Marines (Both USMC and Royal Marines)… November 10, 2011

On November 10th, the US Marine Corps will celebrate its 236th birthday. Founded in Philadelphia, PA at Tun Tavern on November 10th, 1775 the Continental Marines are the forefathers of our modern USMC.  Every year US Marines recognize the birthday with remembrance of our fallen brothers and the history of our beloved corps.

Since we have a number of Royal Marines in the industry, I thought it appropriate to wish our elder brethren a Happy B-Day, as well.  Although the Corps of Royal Marines can trace its lineage back to 1755, the origins of the RM go back to 26 October, 1664 making the RM 345 years old in 2011. (hopefully, my Marine math is right)

Both sets of Marines have distinguished themselves in battle. The US Marines started life during the Barbary Wars against the pirates of the Barbary Coast in the early 1800s.  This was the first time that the US Flag was ever planted on foreign soil.  The USMC count the Battle of Belleau Wood (WWI) as a defining moment and where they earned the title of Devil Dog from the Germans.  In WWII was the “Island Hopping” Campaign with Tarawa, Midway, and of course, Iwo Jima.  The USMC has continued to distinguish itself in all major and minor conflicts to include Vietnam, Grenada, Somalia, Iraq (twice), Afghanistan and others.

Our Royal Marine brothers have also distinguished themselves in battle on numerous fronts. In 1704 the British Royal Marines fought in the battle of Gibraltar. For their bravery and achievments they are commemorated by “Gibraltar” and it is the only battle honor worn on the Royal Marines badge and colors.  The 1800’s were busy for the RMs as they fought from Ashanti, to Navarino and the Crimean War in 1854.  WWI saw the RM fight in Gallipoli, win honors in Zeebrugge and fight in the trenches on the Western Front.  In 1942 the Royal Marine Commandos were formed and took part in the D Day landings.  In 1982 the RM fought in the Falklands, and of course have been active  and served with distinction in Iraq and Afghanistan, as well as other conflicts.

To to all the Marines- Happy Birthday.  Lets not forget our brothers who have been wounded and killed in the line of duty.  Lets drink a beer, have a toast but not forget the sacrifices of our fellow Marines.

With that being said, one of the more troubling aspects of countries in wartime is that of people claiming valor that they have not achieved.  I recently learned of a former friend who has stated for years that he was a Silver Star recipient from Afghanistan.  He has posted on his bio and in various other forums.  A quick call to the USMC Awards Division  in DC confirmed my suspicions.  The person had fabricated his bravery. and his award  If you come across someone who has ‘stolen valor’ by claiming awards they did not earn or being a POW or otherwise..I encourage you to visit the following website:  www.stolenvalor.com.  I have already reported this person and they are taking action.  If any of our UK or other readers have resources for other nations, please comment and I will include.  On that note, all US service members’ military records are available to the general public (in redacted format) under the Freedom of Information Act.  If you have a question about a service member’s service, please visit the following website.  It takes some time but the Archives will send you the record minus personal data.  www.foia.va.gov