R 311732Z Jan 17
ALMAR 001/17
MSGID/GENADMIN/CMC WASHINGTON DC DMCS//
SUBJ/1ST MARINE DIVISION ANNIVERSARY//
GENTEXT/REMARKS/1.  On behalf of all Marines, I(apostrophe)m honored to congratulate the 1st Marine Division on its 76th anniversary.
2.  Activated on 1 February 1941, “The Old Breed” Marines and Sailors found themselves conducting the initial U.S. offensive of World War II in the Solomon Islands just 18 months later.  This division began a proud legacy by fighting across the Pacific Islands to victory.  Since then, Marines and Sailors of the “Blue Diamond” division have continued that legacy of valor and distinguished service through the toughest battles in Korea, Vietnam, Kuwait, Iraq, and Afghanistan.
3.  As we commemorate your rich history, know that all Marines are proud of your achievements and dedication.  You have earned the deepest respect of friend and foe alike.  Each year, we pause to remember the heritage of this division.  We pay tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our Nation, and we pass on the division(apostrophe)s legacy of courage and selfless sacrifice to the next generation of Marines and Sailors.
4.  Happy Anniversary and Semper Fidelis, Robert B. Neller, General, U.S. Marine Corps, Commandant of the Marine Corps.//