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.

Official Marine statements include:

"We are warriors, one and all. Born to defend, built to conquer. The steel we wear is the steel within ourselves, forged by the hot fires of discipline and training. We are fierce in a way no others can be. We are Marines."

"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

The saying goes, "Every Marine a rifleman first." This quickly demonstrates the Marines' intense focus on warfare. Their well-known slogan, "The Few, The Proud, The Marines," expresses the Marine Corps' intense focus on values. Warriors with values - this defines the Marine Corps. .

"The Marines' Hymn"

THE KA-BAR

1942 Soon after the start of World War II, the Union Cutlery Company submits a Ka-Bar branded knife to the U.S. Marine Corps for issue to fighting personnel.

1945 Although the original design presented was not up to par, the Marine Corps accepts a reworked design of the knife and begins issuing it as their standard fighting/utility knife.

Technical Specs:
Blade length 7" overall 11 7/8"

Oval handle constructed of compacted leather disks, smoothed and polished

High carbon steel (1095) blade, black epoxy powder coated, buff polished, razor sharp edge, HRC 56-58

Powdered metal butt cap, carboin steel guard, both powder coated

Cowhide sheath with U.S.M.C. "Eagle and Globe" crest included