R 111736Z JUN 26
ALMAR 013/26
MSGID/GENADMIN/CMC WASHINGTON DC//
SUBJ/UNITED STATES ARMY 251st BIRTHDAY//
GENTEXT/REMARKS/1.  On behalf of United States Marines in every 
clime and place, I extend congratulations to our brothers and 
sisters of the United States Army celebrating 251 years of defending 
our Nation. 
2.  As our country marks its 250th year, we reflect on the enduring 
partnership of Soldiers and Marines that began in 1776, when our 
forebearers responded to the call to secure the freedom proclaimed 
in the Declaration of Independence. Eighty-five years ago, the 
attacks on Pearl Harbor called Soldiers and Marines to continue 
that shared legacy of defending the Nation.  Twenty-five years ago, 
the terrorist attacks of 11 September once again tested that 
enduring bond in the face of a new threat.  In these moments and 
many in between, Soldiers and Marines have stood shoulder to 
shoulder in service to our Nation. 
3.  The future will bring new challenges in increasingly contested 
environments, and America's Soldiers and Marines will remain ready 
partners in Joint All-Domain Operations.  Together, we will continue 
to deter aggression, upholding the high standards of discipline, 
professionalism, and warfighting excellence that define our 
services.
4.  Semper Fidelis, Eric M. Smith, General, U.S. Marine Corps,
Commandant of the Marine Corps.//