R 261350Z NOV 19
ALMAR 029/19
MSGID/GENADMIN/CMC WASHINGTON DC DMCS//
SUBJ/NAVY CHAPLAIN CORPS 244TH ANNIVERSARY//
GENTEXT/REMARKS/1.  On 28 November, we celebrate the 244th anniversary of the United States Navy Chaplain Corps.  Since 1775, Navy chaplains have championed religious freedom in the unique environment of the Naval Services and have labored to steel the spirits of all Marines and Sailors who defend our Nation at and from the sea.
2.  From the earliest days of our Corps, chaplains have stood with Marines in every clime and place.  In garrison, they train with us – sharing in our experiences, hardships, and challenges.  In combat, they serve as faithful advisors, confidants, and friends.  They have lived and died with Marines in battle – putting themselves in harm’s way and even sacrificing their own lives to save others.  Members of the Navy Chaplain Corps serve honorably and courageously on every battlefield.
3.  True to their motto, “Called to Serve”, chaplains tirelessly sharpen Marines in our quest to maintain our ethos, uphold our character, strengthen our spiritual fitness, and sustain our commitment to protect our Nation.  They remind us of our own calling to be honorable and courageous warriors.  Marines take great pride in serving alongside our chaplain, and we are deeply grateful for the dedicated service of all Navy chaplains – past, present, and future.
4.  On behalf of all Marines, I congratulate the Chaplain Corps on 244 years of extraordinary service.
5.  Semper Fidelis.  David H. Berger, General, U.S. Marine Corps, Commandant of the Marine Corps.