Photo By Master Sgt. Skyler Tooker | The Bahrain Army Silent Drill Team performed a special sequence of drill during the...... read more read more
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CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan – Regional Command Southwest celebrated the Marine Corps’ 235th birthday with a ceremony held at Camp Leatherneck, Afghanistan, on Nov. 10, 2010.
The event's guest of honor was Maj. Gen. Sayed Malook, Afghanistan National Army 215th Corps, commanding general. Malook was presented with the first piece of cake, then, following an old Marine Corps tradition, the oldest Marine, Chief Warrant Officer Lawrence O’Brien, 53, and the youngest Marine, Lance Cpl. Daniel Kimble, 19, were served the second piece of cake.
“I am honored and grateful to be the guest of honor for the 235th birthday of the Marine Corps, the world’s most recognized force,” said Malook.
Major Gen. Richard P. Mills, RC(SW) commanding general, addressed the crowd of 400, which included many Canadian, British, Bahrainis, and Afghan soldiers. Mills said there was no better place to spend the Marine Corps birthday than in Afghanistan, at the tip of the spear.
After Malook spoke about his experiences and his partnership with the Marine Corps, Mills thanked Malook for attending, and presented the former artillery man with a golden artillery shell as a symbol of appreciation.
Following the general's remarks came the traditional reading of birthday messages from the 13th Commandant of the Marine Corps, Gen. John A. Lejeune, and the Commandant of the Marine Corps, Gen. James F. Amos.
The 1st Marine Division (Forward) Band played "Anchors Aweigh" and the Marine Hymn. The Bahrain Army Silent Drill Team closed the ceremony, performing a special routine created just for the occasion.
“I thought their drill performance was very impressive,” said Sgt. Patrick McIntyre, 26, acting legal chief for 1st MarDiv (Fwd), Staff Judge Advocate office. “It demonstrates that our allies are dedicated to our partnership.”
“Today,” Mills told the crowd, “Whether you patrol on the ground, fly in the air, fix equipment or coordinate operations, you are in the fight. You contribute to victory, and you also make a difference. Marines, in years to come, will recall your efforts in Afghanistan, and speak highly of your courage, your commitment and your sacrifice."
"The Marine Corps and country are proud of all that you are accomplishing,” Mills concluded. “You have pushed the enemy to the brink of defeat! Continue to do your job, just as the Marines who have gone before you have done. Do it with pride, professionalism, and esprit de corps. Happy birthday Marines, and semper fidelis!"
| Date Taken: | 11.11.2010 |
| Date Posted: | 11.11.2010 02:05 |
| Story ID: | 59886 |
| Location: | CAMP LEATHERNECK, AF |
| Web Views: | 1,004 |
| Downloads: | 3 |
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