To all Marines, my Heroes:
You left your home at an early age and arrived either at San Diego, Parris Island or Quantico. You were "greeted" and told to get off the bus and stand on those Yellow Footprints that so many had stood on before. You accepted the challenge of Marine Corps Recruit Training. After many hours, days, weeks, and months of the most grueling physical and emotional hardship, you earned the Eagle, Globe and Anchor, and most importantly, for the rest of your life, you earned the Title of United States Marine.
Not stopping there, you received more specialized training and learned to function perfectly and professionally in what will be your job.
At every moment, you knew that there may someday be a time when your country would call on you to defend Her freedom. And when that call comes, no Marine ever hesitates; nor do they wither in the face of any battle, however treacherous.
I am the beneficiary of this hard work and sacrifice. I enjoy the freedom and liberty that is a direct product of your service. Because of this, EVERY one of you, from Private to Commandant, is addressed by me as Sir or Ma'am.
Happy Birthday Clayton Jones, Sergeant of Marines, Sir.
(P.S. Clay, the USMC '55 is making its debut at the LIARS contest today, in honor of Monday's Birthday)