U.S. Marine Corps presented with The American Legion Distinguished Service Medal.
As he presented the organization’s top honor to one of the three members of the U.S. Armed Forces turning 250 years old this year, American Legion National Commander James LaCoursiere Jr. provided some historical perspective on the branch.
“Born in Philadelphia’s Tun Tavern on Nov. 10, 1775, the United States Marine Corps has a proud and honorable history. Semper Fidelis, ‘Always Faithful’, is the motto of this legendary fighting force,” LaCoursiere told delegates to the Legion’s national convention in Tampa, Fla. “Admiral Chester Nimitz was referring to Marines at Iwo Jima when he said, ‘uncommon valor was a common virtue.’ He could just as easily have been speaking of other Marines, in other battles, in other wars.”
On Aug. 26, LaCoursiere presented the U.S. Marines with The American Legion Distinguished Service Medal, which was accepted on behalf of the branch by Maj. Gen. Joseph Clearfield, Deputy Commander of Marine Corps Central Command. The Marines join the U.S. Army and U.S. Navy in celebrating their 250th birthday this year.
“I would like to thank you for everything that you do,” Clearfield told convention delegates. “I accept this award on behalf of (Commandant of the Marine Corps Gen. Eric M. Smith).”
- Convention