R 211300Z AUG 23
ALMAR 024/23
MSGID/GENADMIN/CMC WASHINGTON DC//
SUBJ/4TH MARINE DIVISION 80TH ANNIVERSARY//
GENTEXT/REMARKS/1. On behalf of all Marines, I take great pleasure in honoring the Marines and Sailors of the 4th Marine Division on its 80th anniversary.
2. Activated on 16 August 1943 during World War II, 4th Marine Division forged its distinguished legacy in the Pacific Theater.  From the capture of Roi-Namur in the Kwajalein Atoll to hard-won battles on the islands of Saipan, Tinian, and Iwo Jima, the division played a key role in the United States’ victory against the Japanese Empire. In the 1960s, Marine Corps Reserve units reorganized to train and operate according to the division-wing concept. 4th Marine Division reactivated as the Reserve’s ground combat element, ensuring that the Marine Corps, heavily involved in operations in Vietnam, retained a capable force to respond to contingencies.  In the decades since, members of 4th Marine Division have carried on the legacy of fortitude and professionalism forged in the Pacific Theater to Operation Desert Storm, the Global War on Terrorism, and humanitarian operations around the globe.
3. As they have for nearly 60 years, the dedicated reservists of 4th Marine Division stand ready to answer the Nation’s call.  I join all Marines in saluting your service, sacrifice, and dedication.
4. Happy 80th Anniversary and Semper Fidelis. General Eric M. Smith, Assistant Commandant, United States Marine Corps.//