R 151843Z JAN 26
ALMAR 001/26
MSGID/GENADMIN/CMC WASHINGTON DC//
SUBJ/47TH BIRTHDAY OF THE RELIGIOUS PROGRAM SPECIALIST RATING//
GENTEXT/REMARKS/1.  47 years ago, on 15 January 1979, the United 
States Navy established the Religious Program Specialist rating. 
Since their inception, Religious Program Specialists have worked 
diligently alongside Navy Chaplains, championing the free exercise 
of religion and the continued growth of our Corps' spiritual 
fitness.   
2.  In reflecting on these past decades, let us give thanks to these 
steadfast stewards entrusted with the enormous task of supporting 
the indomitable spirit of our Corps.
3.  As we posture towards the future fight, the spiritual fortitude 
of every Marine will be the decisive factor in our success.  We can 
ask for no greater resource than these religious ministry 
professionals who continue to fight by our side in every clime and 
place. 
4.  Happy Birthday, Religious Program Specialists, and Semper 
Fidelis.  
5.  Eric M. Smith, General, U.S. Marine Corps, Commandant of 
the Marine Corps.//