By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation
For over two centuries, the United States Marine Corps has epitomized American valor, discipline, and unity. From the inception of our Republic to contemporary global challenges, the Marines have consistently demonstrated their capacity to tackle any mission, safeguard any coastline, and vanquish any adversary. As we approach our 250th year of independence, we express our heartfelt gratitude to Almighty God for the unwavering commitment of the Marine Corps, and we honor every Marine who has shouldered the defense of our nation with courage and fidelity.
Founded amid revolutionary fervor, the Marine Corps was established on November 10, 1775, by the Second Continental Congress as the Continental Marines. From their inaugural combat mission at Nassau in 1776, Marines have consistently proven themselves as fierce warriors and stalwart defenders of liberty. They have significantly influenced the course of our Nation’s history, fighting shoulder to shoulder with Andrew Jackson at the Battle of New Orleans, enduring the trenches of World War I at Belleau Wood—where they earned the moniker “Devil Dogs”—and achieving critical victories across the Pacific at Guadalcanal, Iwo Jima, and Okinawa. They stood firm against communism in Korea and Vietnam, championed self-governance in the Persian Gulf, and exacted justice during the Global War on Terror. Today, Marines not only defend our embassies overseas but also support our Federal law enforcement agencies at home. Wherever freedom is at risk, the Marine Corps stands ready to respond with unmatched strength and honor.
The world witnessed the Marine Corps’ unparalleled resolve at Iwo Jima during World War II, a defining moment in military history. On February 19, 1945, Marines launched one of the most significant and arduous campaigns ever undertaken by our armed forces. Battling fierce opposition from the Japanese Imperial Army, they stormed the black sands, raised the American flag atop Mount Suribachi, and showcased that no enemy could extinguish the indomitable spirit of the American warrior. This bloody confrontation resulted in extraordinary acts of bravery, with 22 Marines receiving the Medal of Honor—the highest number awarded for a single battle in American history. Their victory not only propelled America’s mission in the Pacific but also set a timeless benchmark for future Marines, characterized by honor, courage, and an unwavering commitment to their country.
Today, the United States Marine Corps remains a formidable bastion of our Republic. Their bravery in battle, meticulous discipline, and relentless perseverance are respected worldwide, grounded in the understanding that genuine peace is safeguarded by robust strength. Our Marines operate under a mission-focused Department of Defense, wholly committed to ensuring military readiness, and they are receiving our utmost resources and unwavering support. My Administration is dedicating over $150 billion to cultivate a leaner, more lethal force suited for the complexities of the twenty-first century. Through investments in shipbuilding, missile defense, and advanced technologies, we are equipping our Marines with every operational edge necessary to ensure American strength prevails in all domains. Under my leadership, I will steadfastly support our Marines, ensuring they remain unhampered in their legendary pursuit of excellence.
From the halls of Montezuma to the shores of Tripoli, the United States Marines have etched their legacy into the annals of history. Their motto, Semper Fidelis—always faithful—reflects the enduring strength of the Corps and the greatness of the nation they safeguard: one Nation, under God, resolute, and forever free.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, DONALD J. TRUMP, President of the United States of America, by the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim November 10, 2025, as a day to honor the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States Marine Corps. I urge all government officials to display the flag of the United States prominently on government buildings, and I encourage the American people to showcase the flag and partake in appropriate ceremonies as a testament to our Nation’s gratitude and respect for the Marine Corps’ storied legacy.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this tenth day of November in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-five, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and fiftieth.
DONALD J. TRUMP
