WHEREAS, the U.S. Marine Corps was established on November 10, 1775, by the Second Continental Congress to aid the Navy during the Revolutionary War; and
WHEREAS, after their success in the Revolutionary War, the Marine Corps was abolished in 1783, as a part of widespread military budget cuts due to the conclusion of the revolution; and
WHEREAS, six years later, the Marine Corps was reinstated under the Navy on July 11, 1789, by Congress; and
WHEREAS, the Marines have consistently been at the tip of the spear and pivotal contributors in numerous conflicts throughout United States history spanning from early battles in the War of 1812, to well-known accomplishments in amphibious warfare during both World Wars, to their most recent participation in the War on Terror; and
WHEREAS, the courageous members of the Marine Corps, past and present, have served in every clime and place, making great sacrifices to serve our country and defend freedom around the world; and
WHEREAS, since 1925, the Marine Corps has celebrated the birth of their beloved Corps and historic service to our nation by hosting an annual “Birthday Ball” in Washington, D.C. which traditionally includes paying homage to Corps and country, dinner, dancing, and a ceremonial cake cutting; and
WHEREAS, following the war of 1812, the Marines protected and promoted American interests across the world, in the Caribbean, off the West Coast of Africa, and at the Falkland Islands; and
WHEREAS, the Marines were nicknamed the “Devil dogs” for their tenacity and heroic action during the first World War; and
WHEREAS, in the face of challenge, the marine Corps continued to protect American citizens and interest, while there was increasing numbers of terrorist attacks against United States’ embassies; and
WHEREAS, during the 1990s, the Marine Corps was essential in providing humanitarian and disaster relief in several different nations, and engaged in the evacuation of American citizens in these countries; and
WHEREAS, the courageous members of the Marine Corps, past and present, have made great sacrifices to serve their country and defend freedom around the world; and
WHEREAS, the adaptability and reliability of the Marine Corps has been highlighted across the world; and
WHEREAS, the Marine Corps serve as a “force of choice” for the President, Secretary, and Combatant Commander; and
WHEREAS, the Marine Corps are a family that fights together for the advancements of our Nation’s progress and ideals; and
WHEREAS, every United States Marine has a fighting spirit, allowing them to be resilient and willing to take on difficult situations, along with the determination to continue to fight until every battle results in victory.
NOW THEREFORE:
BE IT RESOLVED by the House of Representatives of the 153rd General Assembly of the State of Delaware, the Senate concurring therein, that November 10, 2025, is hereby recognized as a day to honor the 250th Birthday of the United State Marine Corps.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the members of the House of Representatives of the 153
rd
General Assembly of the State of Delaware, the Senate concurring therein, call on all Delawareans to reflect, honor, and celebrate the lives of those who have served and are presently serving in the Marine Corps.
