R 262011Z NOV 24
ALMAR 033/24
MSGID/GENADMIN/CMC WASHINGTON DC//
SUBJ/NAVY CHAPLAIN CORPS 249TH BIRTHDAY//
GENTEXT/REMARKS/1.  November 28, 2024 marks the 249th anniversary of
the United States Navy Chaplain Corps. On behalf of Marines
everywhere, I would like to wish our chaplains a happy birthday and
express our many thanks for your efforts in strengthening the
spiritual fitness of our Corps.  Chaplains pick us up when we get
knocked down and keep us in the fight when it matters the most.
In every clime and place, chaplains are there building 
"inner strength from higher purpose."  Forward on remote
islands, underway on amphibious ships, in ready rooms and
maintenance shops, outside the wire in dangerous lands, within our
chapels and installation communities – wherever we look, we see
chaplains representing faith, holding out hope, and building meaning
and purpose in the lives of their Marines, Sailors, and families. 
From all Marines past, present, and future – Happy Birthday Navy 
Chaplains.  
2. Semper Fidelis.  Eric M. Smith, General, U.S. Marine Corps, 
Commandant of the Marine Corps.//