VETERANS DAY
Date Signed: 11/2/2018 | ALMARS Number: 032/18
ALMARS : 032/18
R 021530Z NOV 18
ALMAR 032/18
MSGID/CMC WASHINGTON DC DMCS//
SUBJ/VETERANS DAY//
GENTEXT/REMARKS/1.  Created on 11 November 1919 as Armistice Day to mark the end of combat during the First World War, Veterans Day is a celebration of all those who have served in our nation's military.  This year's Veterans Day coincides with the centennial anniversary of the ending of hostilities of the Great War, and thus carries special significance.
2.  Veterans of the First World War were the first Americans to serve in large numbers overseas in major combat operations.  World War I witnessed the advent of chemical weapons, stagnant and immoveable trench warfare, the expansion of combat air power, large scale losses of men on the battlefield, and the combat trauma of those who returned “shell shocked”.
3.  The legacy of the First World War remains relevant today.  The Marine Corps was forged on the battlefields of France and combat marksmanship won the day at Belleau Wood against well entrenched German machine gun emplacements.  Courage carried the Marines to victory in the face of withering fire and devastating losses at Soissons and Blanc Mont, and shaped the leaders of World War II.
4.  The Marines wearing the eagle, globe, and anchor today are the descendants of those of the Great War.  Recent Marine veterans earned their right to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with their First World War brethren through their service in the deserts of Iraq, the mountains of Afghanistan and every other clime and place.  Just as their predecessors, Marine veterans have proven that volunteer service is one of selflessness, dedication, and patriotism.
5.  As we pause to commemorate Veterans Day, we celebrate all those who have served in the United States military.  To every veteran, know that each one of you is a great source of pride to our Nation, and that all Americans are grateful to you every day for your service and sacrifice on their behalf.
6.  Semper Fidelis, Robert B. Neller, General, U.S. Marine Corps, Commandant of the Marine Corps.//