Recognizing, congratulating, and thanking the United States Marine Corps on the occasion of its 246th Anniversary.

WHEREAS, 246 years ago, on November 10, 1775, the United States Marine Corps was established in Philadelphia at the Tun Tavern, when the Second Continental Congress authorized the “First and Second Battalions of Marines” to “serve for and during the present war with Great Britain and the Colonies.” Thus was born one of the most elite fighting forces the world has ever known; and

WHEREAS, In the fabled words of The Marines’ Hymn, “From the Halls of Montezuma to the shores of Tripoli; We fight our country’s battles on the land as on the sea.” Marines are prepared and able to fight at a moment’s notice to win on land, sea, and air, in any climate and any conditions in order to defend the United States at home and abroad. Marines have served valiantly in our nation’s conflicts, from the capture of British supplies at Fort Nassau during the American Revolution to Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan and the Iraq War; and

WHEREAS, Often the first in battle or at the scene of a crisis, Marines have demonstrated an unyielding commitment to protecting the lives of our citizens and the interests of our nation as our rapid response force, mandated by Congress to be “the most ready when the nation is least ready.” From humanitarian relief efforts to combat operations, Marines have served as our first responders; and

WHEREAS, Marines have established a global legacy of bravery and service in combat operations like the Battle of Guadalcanal in the Solomon Islands, the Battle of Iwo Jima in Japan, and Chosin Reservoir in Korea as well as humanitarian missions such as Operation United Response following the 2010 Haiti earthquake and rescue and relief efforts during and after Hurricane Katrina; and

WHEREAS, Marines are defined by exceptional character, values, and leadership. Their motto, “Semper Fidelis,” or “always faithful,” speaks to the lifelong bonds of loyalty to the Corps and the country held by every member. Each Marine wears an emblem with an eagle, globe, and anchor; the eagle represents the United States standing at the ready to defend and protect, the globe represents the worldwide reach of the Marines, and the anchor represents the naval heritage of the Corps and its ability to reach any coastline in the world. “Ductus Exemplo,” Latin for “lead by example,” is the official motto of the Marines’ Officer Candidate School; and

WHEREAS, President Ronald Reagan once said, “Some people spend their life wondering if they made a difference. Marines don’t have that problem.” Philadelphia is profoundly proud to be the birthplace of the United States Marine Corps, grateful for the sacrifices and accomplishments of Marines through the ages, and encouraged by the knowledge that the Marines will continue to serve valiantly in our future. Ooh-rah!; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY PHILADELPHIA, That it hereby recognizes, congratulates, and thanks the United States Marine Corps on the occasion of its 246th Anniversary.

FURTHER RESOLVED, That an Engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Cookie’s Tavern, evidencing the sincere respect and gratitude of this legislative body.

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