US Marine Corps War Memorial, George Washington Memorial Parkway

—National Park Service, U.S. Department of the Interior —

You might be surprised to learn that there have been Marines for longer than there has been a country called the United States of America.

The Second Continental Congress, meeting in Philadelphia, first authorized the raising of the "Continental Marines"—in November 1775.

The well-known ability of the Marines to quickly respond to emergencies—in any part of the globe—has made them a part of almost every conflict in the history of the United States. Marines have "fought their country's battles" on every continent, and sailed every sea on the planet, for more than 240 years.

One of your best opportunities to learn more in depth about Marines, their challenges, triumphs, and traditions is not far away. Near Quantico, Virginia, about 30 minutes drive time from here, you can explore the National Museum of the Marine Corps or conduct research at the Marine Corps History Division.

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That Eagle, Globe, and Anchor:
Time-honored Traditions
In the early 1800s Marine's buttons showed an eagle clutching a fouled anchor with 13 stars above. You can still see that on dress and service uniform buttons today. Only the stars have changed—from six points then to five points.

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Missions Critical

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