For 41 of the 235 years of the Marine Corps, I have adopted and earned the pride to say that I am damn happy to be a United States Marine. Semper Fidelis Marines! And happy birthday. Be safe today and spread the pride.

Having served with the 7th Marines in Vietnam, there is not a day that has passed since I joined the Corps in 1967 that I have not been proud to claim the title of United States Marine. Every ounce of  discipline and leadership skills I learned are credited to the Marines and its history of training a “few good men.” Oh, I suppose I should include a few Nuns from Catholic school too!  In good times and bad of which there were many after Vietnam, I could always rely on the “fidelis, (faith), of my fellow Marines to keep my spirits aligned, and boots shined!

I am amazed to this day, how the smallest of all the Armed Forces holds so much respect around the world.  From Embassies to the Presidents helicopters you see those perennial Corporals, the backbone of the Marine Corps standing tall. Watch them salute, watch them march, watch the silent drill team, and you will witness the pinnacle of human precision.   Ooorah!

If ever you are touring the Washington DC area, do not miss the chance to visit the new Marine Corps Museum at Quantico, where the leaves are polished! This museum has become one of Virginia’s top tourist destinations with more than 2 million visitors since its opening in 2004. They recently added three new galleries showcasing the history of Marines from the Revolution to defending national interests at sea by taking on the Barbary pirates, the first terrorists, to the new WWl gallery with trmendous photos of our involvement with Expeditionary Forces in France.

The museum has launched a Virtual Experience website that features tons of history and collectibles.   It can be seen at “www.VirtualUSMCMuseum.com”

Mike Brewer. 1st Battalion, 7th Marines. Squad Leader, Forward Observer. Republic of Vietnam, Quang Nam Province. 1968-69