R 182155Z DEC 20
ALMAR 029/20
MSGID/CMC WASHINGTON DC DMCS//
SUBJ/HOLIDAY MESSAGE 2020//
GENTEXT/REMARKS/1. To all of our Marines, Sailors, Civilian Marines, and families, I want to wish you a very joyous holiday season.  Our Marine Corps continues to answer our Nation’s call and stand the watch for freedom and liberty across the globe.  We ask a lot of our Marine Corps family and, despite the many challenges we encounter, you continue to deliver every day.  I sincerely appreciate everything that all of you do for our Corps and our great Nation.
2.  This is a time of year when we especially remember our Marines and Sailors deployed around the globe.  To those on the front lines during the holidays, we extend deepest gratitude for your commitment to the mission and ask you to remain unwavering in the execution of the task at hand.  Your sacrifice allows our citizens to celebrate in peace.  Take a moment to enjoy the holiday season with your extended Marine Corps family as generations of Marines have done before us on foreign shores and battlefields since the founding of our Nation.
3.  Even on the home front, the holidays will look different than others.  For some, traveling and gathering with family and friends may not be possible.  For those who can’t, take advantage of the opportunity to rejoice with your fellow Marines and Sailors and reflect on the special bonds that only exist in the profession of arms.
4.  Entering a new year is also a great chance to reflect on personal and professional accomplishments from 2020 and consider what goals to set for 2021.  Wherever you are and whatever you do this holiday season and into the new year, take pride in the uniform you wear and serve as an example for others to emulate.
5.  Relax, recharge, and refocus.  Come back to your units ready to fight and win!  Happy Holidays and Semper Fidelis! David H. Berger, General, U.S. Marine Corps, Commandant of the Marine Corps.//