Congresswoman Madeleine Z. Bordallo today joined House Speaker John Boehner and many of her fellow Members of Congress at a ceremony in the U.S. Capitol to celebrate the 237th birthday of the U.S. Marine Corps. The ceremony was hosted by General James F. Amos, Commandant of the Marine Corps.

“I congratulate the U.S. Marine Corps on 237 years of dedicated service to our country,” said Congresswoman Bordallo. “Their motto, Semper Fidelis, is reflective of the Corps’s loyalty and courage, which has been demonstrated in numerous military campaigns, including, most recently, in Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom. The 3rd Marine Division liberated Guam from enemy occupation at the end of World War II, and the people of Guam continue to commemorate their valor and sacrifice every year on July 21st, Liberation Day.

“For many on our island who survived WWII, the impending relocation of up to 5,000 Marines from Okinawa to Guam represents a homecoming of sorts. I appreciate the leadership of General Amos, and I thank him for his continued support of the military buildup on Guam. The Pacific realignments are critical to our national security and will help to address our allies’ requirements in the region.

“As we celebrate the founding of the Marines, we must also remember the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our freedom. I continue to pray for the safe return of all those still serving overseas, and I wish the U.S. Marine Corps continued success for many years to come.”