R 101438Z JAN 19
MARADMIN 017/19
MSGID/GENADMIN/CMC WASHINGTON DC MRA MP/MPE//
SUBJ/2019 DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. HOLIDAY OBSERVANCE//
POC/M. J. SHEPPARD/CIV/UNIT: MPE/-/TEL:(703)784-9371/TEL: DSN 278-9371/EMAIL: MARC.SHEPPARD@USMC.MIL//
GENTEXT/REMARKS/1.  This year national observance of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. birthday will be celebrated on 21 January 2019.  Signed into law in January 1983, the King Holiday is a day when the Nation pauses to remember Dr. King life and work.  In 1994, Congress designated Martin Luther King, Jr. Day as the first and only federal holiday observed as a national day of service.
2.  The permanent theme for Dr. King Holiday observance is “Remember! Celebrate! Act! A day on, not a day off!” This theme reminds us that Dr. King Holiday is a day for community and humanitarian service activities and programs.  The King Holiday empowers individuals and unifies communities as we move closer towards the fulfillment of his dream to make democracy a reality.
3.  Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. reminded the world that, “Human progress is neither automatic nor inevitable.  Every step toward the goal of justice requires sacrifice, suffering, and struggle; the tireless exertions and passionate concern of dedicated individuals.”  He challenged Americans to live up to the ideals in our founding documents that we are all created equal, endowed with unalienable rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
4.  All are encouraged to reflect on the journey of Dr. King who was dedicated to ensuring equality for all.  As Marines and civilian Marines, we take pride in treating everyone with dignity and respect.  For that reason, we continue to succeed in our mission of making Marines, winning battles and returning quality citizens to society.
5.  During the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday observance, commanders are encouraged to take time to recognize and celebrate Dr. King life and contributions to this country.  Commanders are further encouraged to conduct programs and promote participation in observance events.
6.  Release authorized by Brigadier General W. H. Swan, Director, Manpower Plans and Policy Division.//