R 162103Z MAY 17
ALMAR 016/17
MSGID/GENADMIN/CMC WASHINGTON DC DMCS//
SUBJ/ARMED FORCES DAY//
GENTEXT/REMARKS/1.  Since 20 May 1950, our Nation has set aside the third Saturday in May to honor those Americans who proudly serve in the Armed Forces.
2.  Three years after the inception of Armed Forces Day, President Dwight D. Eisenhower stated in his proclamation, “It is fitting and proper that we devote one day each year to paying special tribute to those whose constancy and courage constitute one of the bulwarks guarding the freedom of this Nation and the peace of the free world.”  This statement is as relevant today as it was 64 years ago.  On this day, we honor those men and women who have sworn a solemn oath to defend our great Nation and volunteered to serve something greater than self in order to preserve our country, values and liberty.
3.  Today, our Nation remains the bastion of freedom because of those in uniform who make the most difficult sacrifices.  As we celebrate Armed Forces Day, let us not forget our Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines and members of the Coast Guard who continue to protect our Constitution and liberty.  Thank you to all who serve or have served in our Armed Forces for your tireless patriotism and devotion to duty.
4.  Semper Fidelis, Robert B. Neller, General, U.S. Marine Corps, Commandant of the Marine Corps.//