History of the Marine Corps

THROUGH EVERY CONFLICT. FOR EVERY COMMUNITY. THE HISTORY OF OUR CORPS TELLS THE TRIUMPHS OF OUR NATION.


Since November 10, 1775, ours is a legacy of having each other’s back—and never backing down. On legendary battlefields like Guadalcanal, Chosin Reservoir, and Marjah in defense of our national interests. Through necessary actions back home, enabling our own struggling communities to thrive once more. Then and now, every Marine is a United States Marine, fighting through every circumstance to continue our Nation's advance.


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STORIES OF DISTINCTION

To be a Marine is to always move forward with tenacity towards the next battle standing in the way of our Nation’s progress, but Marines also have a long lineage of defining moments to look back on, serving as a source of immeasurable inspiration. View some of the stories that make all Marines walk a little taller and prouder.

STORIES OF DISTINCTION

To be a Marine is to always move forward with tenacity towards the next battle standing in the way of our Nation’s progress, but Marines also have a long lineage of defining moments to look back on, serving as a source of immeasurable inspiration. View some of the stories that make all Marines walk a little taller and prouder.

NAVAJO CODE TALKERS

Crucial in securing victory over Japan in World War II, it was our Marine Navajo Code Talkers who provided the unbreakable code necessary to communicate on the battlefield effectively.

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MONTFORD POINT MARINES

Paving the way for generations to come, more than 20,000 Montford Point Marines made history winning crucial battles for our Nation in the Pacific, Korea, and Vietnam.

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HAPPY 249TH BIRTHDAY, MARINES


Happy 249th birthday, Marines. Our battle color streamers tell the story of the collective fight Marines have won for our nation since the birth of the Corps. These colors represent the collective determination of an entire unit committed to winning for our cause. Marines recognize the meaning behind each color and take pride in the values and battles they signify. 

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Contact a Recruiter

Gain direct access to a Marine Recruiter who has fought alongside Marines and is prepared to show you how to become one.

FAQS

One doesn't consider an endeavor of this magnitude without having questions. Here are some of the most common.


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MARINE CORPS UNIFORMS AND SYMBOLS

The uniforms and symbols that represent our Corps exemplify every Marine’s commitment to winning our Nation’s current and future battles.

MARINE CORPS VALUES

These are the values that guide Marines over the physical, mental and moral battles fought and won on behalf of our Nation.

SEMPER FIDELIS

Latin for “Always Faithful,” Semper Fidelis is the Marine motto that was born from our unbreakable commitment to each other and our Nation.