R 011514Z MAY 19
ALMAR 012/19
MSGID/GENADMIN/CMC WASHINGTON DC DMCS//
SUBJ/ARMED FORCES DAY//
GENTEXT/REMARKS/1.  On 18 May, the citizens of the United States will unite and honor our military heroes for their patriotic service to our great Nation.
2.  Created by President Harry S. Truman in 1949, Armed Forces Day is a day to pay special tribute to the men and women of the Armed Forces.  Since the first celebration in 1950, we pause on this day to express our gratitude to all who volunteered to wear the uniform of America's military, to honor those who were willing to go into harm's way in defense of freedom and liberty, and to aid those in peril around the globe.
3.  As we celebrate this year's Armed Forces Day, we extend our deepest appreciation to the men and women in uniform who extoll the virtues of service with honor, courage in the face of adversity, and respect for our fellow human beings.
4.  The men and women of today's military not only defend freedom against tyranny and terrorists, but aid their fellow Americans in the aftermath of nature's wrath.  This Armed Forces Day, all Marines serving around the world should offer a heartfelt salute to those who serve in any branch of our military.
5.  Semper Fidelis, Robert B. Neller, General, U.S. Marine Corps, Commandant of the Marine Corps.//