The Marine Corps was founded Nov. 10, 1775 when the Continental Congress order two battalions of Marines be created to serve during the Revolutionary War. They further resolved that this force be acquainted with maritime operations in order to serve aboard naval vessels. Thus, the United States Marine Corps has always been an expeditionary naval force ready to defend the nation's interests overseas.

Some statements about the Marines:

"Some people wonder all their lives if they've made a difference. The Marines don't have that problem."
--- PRESIDENT RONALD REAGAN

"In the Marines, everyone-sergeant, mechanic, cannoneer, supply man, clerk, aviator, cook-is a rifleman first. All speak the language of the rifle and bayonet, of muddy boots and long, hot marches. It's never us and them, only us. That is the secret of the Corps."
--- COL. DANIEL F. BOLGER, U.S. ARMY
     'DEATH GROUND: TODAY'S AMERICAN INFANTRY IN BATTLE'

"They are in front of us, behind us, and we are flanked on both sides by an enemy that outnumbers us 29:1. They can't get away from us now!"
--- LEWIS BURWELL "CHESTY" PULLER
     (The most decorated US Marine in history)