R 011237Z JUL 26
ALMAR 015/26
MSGID/CMC WASHINGTON DC//
SUBJ/INDEPENDENCE DAY MESSAGE 2026//
GENTEXT/REMARKS/ 1.  Today marks 250 years since our Nation’s 
founders officially declared their independence.  In doing so, 
they asserted themselves as citizens under a free and independent 
government, united in the pursuit of liberty.  Marines played a 
critical role in securing that liberty, and for the last
two-and-a-half centuries, we have stood watch to support 
and defend the ideals upon which our Nation was founded.
2.  Independence Day is an opportunity to reflect on those ideals
and to celebrate the enduring principles that bind us together as
Americans.  It is also a stark reminder that freedom is never 
guaranteed — it is earned by those willing to defend it.  Today and 
every day, we honor the legacy of those who came before us by 
upholding our standards, living by our core values, and remaining
vigilant against those who dare to challenge our way of life.
3.  The American people trust their Marines to be most ready when 
the Nation is least ready. As our Nation’s premier expeditionary 
force-in-readiness, we must continuously adapt, modernize, and 
sharpen the warfighting edge that has defined our Corps, since 
before our Declaration of Independence was written.  This 
responsibility demands constant preparation, discipline, and the 
same unshakable commitment our founders pledged to one another.
4.  To all our Marines, Sailors, civilians, and families: thank you 
for your unwavering dedication and sacrifice. Wherever this holiday 
finds you—at home, forward deployed, underway, or standing 
watch—know that you represent a proud legacy of service. Look out 
for one another, take time to reflect on what we are sworn to 
defend, and continue preparing for the next fight.
5.  Semper Fidelis, Eric M. Smith, General, U.S. Marine Corps,
Commandant of the Marine Corps//