Good morning Leathernecks, and on this the 17th day of September in the history of our beloved Corps:
In 1852, the sloop Jamestown sends her Marines ashore to protect the American consulate in Buenos Aires.
In 1902, Marines and seamen from the cruiser Cincinnati (C-7) land at Colon to guard Americans during a rebellion against Colombian rule.
U.S. interest in the Isthmus of Panama is heightened by a recent decision to build a canal there to connect the Pacific and Atlantic oceans.
In 1939, the Soviet Union invades Poland.
Organized resistance in Poland ends on 27 September, and the country is divided by the Soviets and the Germans.
In 1944, the 7th Marines continues its assault on the southern promontory, while the 1st Marines and 2/7 batter their way into the nightmare terrain in the north.
Two regiments of the 81st Infantry Division assault Angaur Island just south of Peleliu.
The “Provisional” label is dropped from the title of FMFPAC headquarters.
In 1947, the National Security Act of 1947 is implemented, with James Forrestal becoming the Secretary of National Defense, John L. Sullivan replacing him as Secretary of the Navy, and W. Stuart Symington, the former Assistant Secretary of War for Air, becoming the first Secretary of the Air Force.
The title Secretary of National Defense will soon be routinely shortened to Secretary of Defense.
The overarching executive department titled the National Military Establishment will formally change its name to the Department of Defense in 1949.
In 1950, MAG-33 (VMF(N)-542, VMF-212, and VMF-312) begins deploying to Kimpo Airfield in support of X Corps.
The 7th Infantry Division moves up to assume a position on the right flank of the 1st Marine Division for the drive on Seoul.
In 1960, the Navy launches the Iwo Jima (LPH-2), its first helicopter carrier built from the keel up.
In addition to an entire squadron of helicopters, it can carry 2,000 Marines.
In 1969, the United States announces a second troop withdrawal amounting 40,500 personnel, of which 18,500 will be Marines.
The October draft call will include1,400 men destined for the Marine Corps, bringing its number of draftees for the year to 11,878.
In 1990, the last elements of the 4th MEB arrive in the Persian Gulf and remain afloat under Navy command.
Saepius Exertus, Semper Fidelis, Frater Infinitas!
Often Tested, Always Faithful, Brothers Forever!
-Richard W. Pettengill, Corporal USMC
And damn proud of it!