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Having spent 32 years wearing the uniform of the United States Marine Corps, I have never suffered from an ‘identity crisis’. I always knew that I was a Marine, and I always knew that our beloved Corps was a Naval Service. In 1947, the Marine Corps came within a hairsbreadth of being disbanded – because Congress reviewed our organization, and determined that we were just a smaller ‘army’ and the nation did not need two armies.
A bitter fight ensued, and as a result, the organization and mission of the Marine Corps was established as Public Law. To begin tacking “Navy and Marine Corps”, to every official phrase, department – just to satisfy the egos of some Marines who feel being identified as Marines is not sufficient, will cause us problems. Secretary of Defense Bill Gates has officially stated that DOD will review the operational capabilities, size and mission assignments, to determine “what future role the Marine Corps will take.” Take heed my friends – to cut loose our strong association with the Navy, will spell our doom.
Respectfully submitted,
Dan Flynn
SgtMajor of Marines, Ret. 1956-1989
During my ten years in the Corps we never questioned our partnership with the Navy and our role in that partnership. Now we getting all wound up about a Defense Department name? This effort diminishes our history and traditions. I am and always will be satisfied with being a Marine.
Semper Fi.
At one time, the Marine Corps was not represented on the Joint Chiefs of Staff, except by the Naval representative. Over time, change occurred and the USMC was provided a seat at the Joint Chiefs, and voila after time a Marine was named as the Chief of Staff. However, even at that, the Marine Corps is still under the Department of the Navy. Renaming the Department to the Department of the Navy and Marine Corps, does not change the structure. The Marine Corps will still be under the Secretary of the Navy & Marine Corps. I support the change as a Marine veteran and a retired civil servant from the Department of Defense. We (USMC) need to have our identity solidified in the Secretariats.
Our Corps history since 1775 speaks for itself. I don’t support this change at all. We are “soldiers of the sea”. I remain Semper Fi, Mac
I am a former Marine (1963-1967) and feel that the Marine Corps has always been part of the Department of the Navy, and should remain a part of the Department of the Navy. No name change is necessary; we are above whining about mere names. We are Marines and that says it all!
The Marines IS a department of the Navy; The MEN’S DEPARTMENT!
Semper Fi, Marine Corps!!!!!!!!!!!!
Drill Instructors are HOT!
Yes, I am a woman. And a Marine.
I feel that to rename the Department of the Navy is to ignore the history and unique nature of the Marine Corps. To dilute the amphibious quality of Marines that gives the service it’s distinction among others, without which it is a redundant branch. I would hope the unique nature of the marines as a seagoing, amphibious force within the department of the navy would be a source of immense pride. Perhaps not. Perhaps because the Marine Corps has been neck deep in 10 years of ground war.
As a former Marine, ‘73-’76, I agree with the proposed name change and say that it is about time! The Navy and the Marine Corps are both valuable organizations and serve our country in an honorable fashion. Both need to recognized for their contributions to protecting our country.
As a former member of the 101st Airborne Division, I have a great deal of respect for the members of US Marine Corps and they should have their own Secretary just as the US Army, Navy and Air force have. leonard C. Zucker
You have all of the support I can possibly offer.
I have posted an article on my Marine Corps focused blog,
http://rightwingwizkid.blogspot.com/
I also will be passing along your information to all of the USMC forums I am a part of.
As brother of a Marine Corps Veteran who was in the Chosen Few and got wounded in that Korean battle, I believe it is only fitting and way over due that my brother, Cpl Nils Jerry Rowland, and his fellow and fallen heroes get the honor they deserve. The USA and the world needs to know that we are standing up for them as they have stood up and fought and died for us by having the branch with the name of Marines.
As my brother has said to me many times – “Once a Marine, always a Marine . . . The few, the proud, the Marines.” …..Semper Fi….
Proud to have a brother that was a Marine.
John Rowland Sr.
My father, my brother, my half brother, and two nephews,
have been Marines. They should be honored the same as the other military service soldiers, sailors, and veterans. I am so proud of the men in my family and their love for these United States of America.
Elaine (Dykes) Rowland
I am at least a fifth generation born American. I am not a Marine, Soldier, or Sailor. I am a retired Airman, originally from Missouri. Unfortunately, the Department of Defense is not The Department of Homeland Security as was considered to be on the day President Truman ; also from Missouri, endorsed the National Security Act of 1947. I recommend every American service member and politician read it. You just might be surprised. I have always cautioned before effecting changes to the work of the well qualified, experienced, and patriotic. To me, this issue is fundamental. One which should have been more aggressively pursued after WWII. Pursued in the same manner as that of redefining the Army Air Corp. As a direct descendant of not one but, two of our Great Nation’s Chosin Few. I say we should provide The United States Marines a new and formal opportunity to chuse just whom they report to. Then propose a functional modification to the National Security Act of 1947 to the current Commander in Chief for review.
God Bless America
Mac
I am at least a fifth generation born American. I am not a Marine, Soldier, or Sailor. I am a retired Airman, originally from Missouri. Unfortunately, the Department of Defense is not The Department of Homeland Security as was considered to be on the day President Truman ; also from Missouri, endorsed the National Security Act of 1947. I recommend every American service member and politician read it. You just might be surprised. I have always cautioned before effecting changes to the work of the well qualified, experienced, and patriotic. To me, this issue is fundamental. One which should have been more aggressively pursued after WWII. Pursued in the same manner as that of redefining the Army Air Corp. As a direct descendant of not one but, two of our Great Nation’s Chosin Few. I say we should provide The United States Marines a new and formal opportunity to chuse just whom they report to and then recommend the current Commander in Chief make it happen for them.
God Bless America
Mac
As a current Marine Officer I disagree with changing the name of the Department of the Navy…our close relationship with the Navy is what distinguishes us from the Army. I am proud to serve in a naval service in the Department of the Navy and would have it no other way.
My father enlisted in 1939, served in China,and was onWake Is.Dec 8. Spent the rest of WWII as a POW.My Grandparents recieved a postcard from the Redcross a year and a half later saying he was alive and well.At the end of the war he was released and theyrecieved a post card from President Trumun [sp]thanking him for his service to the country.Now times are different my son is a Marine.235years it is time
When I was young, I wondered what life would have been like If I’d been born to a family with $$$. Then I actually met some. They were never worried about where the next check would come from, but they were weaker than $#!+! My father is a “Reformed Jarhead”, and worked for every dollar as an automobile mechanic when I was younger. He can’t do that anymore, but he’s still been a great father, and I plan to follow in his footsteps someday.
United States Marines have always been willing to put it all on the line when defending our freedom.
It’s time we recognized them for that by giving them their own branch office in the DoD.
I never would have heard about this issue if I had not gone last night to hear ‘The Gunny’, R. Lee Ermey speak at a benefit for our local veteran’s here in Spokane Washington. I knew the the Marine Corps was still part of the Department of the Navy, but I just assumed that something as important as a letter to the parents of a Marine who gave his or her life for love of country would have acknowledged that person’s identity as a United States Marine. This is not rocket science…recognize them for who they are…MARINES!!! They have earned it!
After 29 years of service to our Corps it is past time we get our spot to identify us as our own service. Nothing against the Navy but damn we are the mens department of this show.
As a Marine myself, I think this should go even further and that is to make the Marine Corps their own Department. The sacrifice that Marines have given today and that of Viet-nam and Korea have earned them that honor. To all my fellow Marines out there SEMPER FI – Do Or Die…
Dave Bailey
Mercer County Vets Motorcycle Association, President
My son died while serving in the Marine Corp. I received a letter from the Dept of The Navy……NONE from the Marine Corp… And NOT from the President as he was not KIA. They all have jobs to do and they all are fighting the “War On Global Terroirism”. The pins given to the families are even different. Purple & Gold for KIA and gold for non-combat releated.
There is alot that needs to be changed !!!!!
Yesterday, I went to a sporting goods store in Colleyville, TX where Gunny Emery was conducting an autographed picture signing. There were hundreds there and I spoke with many of them about Marinecause.com.. NONE of them had heard of it !!! We need to get the word out !!! Tell your friends, neighbors and relatives!! When I told Gunny about my findings he stood up and explained our quest to all within ear shot. (As you know, Gunny has a booming voice !!) We have received so few responses and there are many current and former Marines we need to hear from.
Gunny, sorry for the typo on your name !!
I have not yet earned the Proud and Honorable title of United States Marine but i have signed and I am patiently waiting for my ship date to come. I hope this petition works and its changed by the time i earn the Greatest title in the world. Semper Fi.
need help if you go to our web site you will under stand. http://www.mclmuseum.com at our museum here in scranton,pa. and in our museum we have the three medals of honor. iwe would ;ike to hear from our heros, we would like to put coins in with the medals. if anyone can help it would greatly enhance the museum.you can send coins to dom at 1302 madison ave dunmore pa 18509 SEMPER FIDLIS
The few,the proud ! That’s us ! Let the Navy have thier own department if they want one . We can always go to hell, regroup then come back as THE DEPARTMENT OF THE MARINE CORPS. Why not , I’m sure we have earned it by now. NAM VET….. USMC/1961-1965 I was a nam vet before it got UNpopular………
As a Marine 1964-1967 I was always aware of a saying the MArine corps was a Department of the Navy as a temporary measure. Well I guess it is permanent now. We must have learned to walk on water.
My DI told me I could walk on water…………. You know I believed him !
The Marine Corps really needs to be their own branch of the Service, just like the Army, Navy and Air Force. The Corps should not be suborned to the Navy or any other branch.
Unlike all the other branches, including the Navy, the Marines are probably the most universal of solders and know how to fight in all sorts of environments.
Back in 1980 when there was talk to creating a “Rapid Deployment Force”, with a combination of all branches involved in a single command structure, they discovered that they were re-inventing the wheel on that one, because it would have been the same to just “send in the Marines”.
This change is long past due. When my brother passed in 1976, I wondered why the letter came from the navy. No disrespect for the navy, but my brother served in the Marines. We were proud of the fact and still are. I sincerely hope this name change passes and represents all Marines as they truly are.
The Marine corps desreve every right in service to be reconsideredin any respesect not only to their country, but the world. If freedom is to continue to ring it willl be to those who serve in this respect.
The U.S. Marine Corps has both a sacrificial and proud heritage in the serive of our nation. Let us support them and make every effort that this great branch of our armed forces receives the credit and honor that they have purchased with their own blood!
How can the Navy Department possibly have any problem with this request to add the U.S. Marine corps to their name. We are–and always have been when it comes to the Navy and Marine Corps–ONE FOR ALL AND ALL FOR ONE ! !! !
I wrote my senator and this is his reply:
Dear Mr. Anderson:
Thank you for contacting me regarding legislation that would change the name of the Department of the Navy. I appreciate hearing from you.
I am pleased to tell you that I am a cosponsor of legislation, introduced by Senator Roberts of Kansas, to rename the Department of the Navy as the Department of the Navy and the Marine Corps. I believe that the contributions of the Marine Corps should be recognized as an equal partner to those of the Department of the Navy. I also recognize the meritorious contributions of our current and veteran Marines to the military. This legislation is currently before the Senate Armed Services Committee.
Again, thank you for keeping me apprised of your interest in this issue. If I may be of further service, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,
Ron Wyden
United States Senator
I had said before this is a project of the League politians in the DC area. They used the service of the senator from Michigan in the US Air Force not theArmy Air Corps or Army Air Force. Why the switch? Also General Grey wanting a Marine Corps Acad. I have fond memories of my service with the Corps, but believe many sailors would be happy if the Corps provided all of their own support.
E.C. Piersol,USN,Ret.
I was in the Navy 50 years ago and we always had Marines on our ship and in my disbursing office. I know that the Marines were considered a part of the Navy, but I never knew that my fellow shipmates who were proud Marines were treated less than equal with us proud sailors. Yes, we should have our dames side by side as a Department in the Defense.
A former U.S. Navy Corpsman Second Class (DV).
I was tasked to provide medical support to “Bravo” Co., 1st Bn, 6th Marines, 2d Marine Division, during their Mountain Warfare training in Bridgeport, CA.
I can’t compose the words…
I joined the Navy and was assigned to a U.S. Marine Corps unit..
Thank You, Mr. SECNAV!
You provided me with some of the most wonderful moments of my entire life. To this very day, I can still see their motivation, dedication and professionalism. So crystal in my memory are their faces, but no longer their names and nick names! I used to know them all. To this very day – I only wish I’d taken the time to record their names and addresses, so that perhaps, we could be together, (if even for a little while). My personal experience with those U.S. Marines during that training changed my life. Looking back. It was nothing less than an honor to serve with them. Because of those Marines, I learned a great deal about myself and the goals that I eventually achieved…
And the answer is, “yes”.
The Marine Corps is in the Department of the Navy…….the MEN’S Department!
I, too, wrote my Senators here in Texas. I read the recent responses received from other Senators and find them all to be the same as those I received. NOT ONE said they would support the bill but skirted the issue saying they would keep our views in mind. The responses for the most part seem to be a form letter. If they can’t support us, then, come election time !!!!
First, reverse the picture in this Powerpoint. It looks like hell.
Second, why not a Department of the Marine Corps? We’ve been around a lot longer than the junior service. Third, Why not have a Secretary of the marine Corps? Again, refer to #2.
It’s been a long time coming.
I’m voting yes. Earn your pay Senators and Congressmen/women.
Do the correct thing and pass this legislation.
Semper Fi,
Forrest L. “Butch” Secord Jr.
“M” 3/2
1975 to 1979
If the point behind this name change is to help console families of Marines killed in action or while on active duty with a letter that acknowledges their serivce as a Marine, I understand it but don’t think it’s enough to change the name of the Department of the Navy to include the Marine Corps’name in the title. First off, it’s insulting to both the Marines and the Corpsmen who served in it to have “second billing” to the Navy. Secondly, while we will always need Corpsmen or some type of Doc, and a ride to wherever the fight is, I don’t see the need to be associated with the Navy when it comes to appropriations or in name. Don’t get me wrong, I appreciate the Navy for what it is but think we need to branch out on our own. The last point I want to make is that we get the short end of the stick when it comes to budgeting for new gear and one way to turn it around may be to emancipate ourselves from the Navy.
22 MEU
2000-2004
My father Sgt. Maj. Luther J. Roach served proudly in the Marines for 20yrs. Until the day he died he always talked and reminised of his beloved Corp. He would love to see the Marines be a seperated intity of its own. I myself served 7 yrs. in the Corp , I feel its time and well earned to distinguish ourselves as a seperate fighting force. As my father was so proud for his Marines, I to will always remember and stand by the two words that all Marines will never forget SEMPER FI …….
Wrote both Senators from VA.Mark Warner and Jim Webb.Received the following replies::::
Dear Mr.Trivette,Thank you for contacting my office regarding S.504, a bill to redesignate the Department of the Navy as the Department of the Navy and Marine Corps. I appreciate your taking the time to share your views.
As you may know this bill was introduced on February 27, 2009, and is currently pending consideration in the Senate Committee on Armed Services. As the father of a Marine, a Marine combat veteran myself, and a former Secretary of the Navy, I am keenly aware of the unique relationship of the United States Navy and Marine Corps. Please be assured as the committee continues to address this issue I will keep your specific views in mind.
Your correspondence is helpful to me and my staff. I hope you will continue to share your thoughts in the years ahead.
I would also invite you to visit my website at http://www.webb.senate.gov for regular updates about my activities and positions on matters that are important to Virginia and our nation.
Thank you once again for contacting my office.
Sincerely,
Jim Webb
United States Senator
Dear Friend,
Thank you for taking the time to share your views and experiences with me.
If you need assistance resolving a specific problem with a federal agency, please contact my office at 703-442-0670 or toll free at 1-877-676-2759. Otherwise, please be assured that we are reading and responding to your comments and opinions as fast as we can.
As the 111th Congress moves forward, please continue to be in touch with your views.
Sincerely,
MARK R. WARNER
United States Senator
After retiring from the Corps some 11 years ago it is still amazing to me that we have politicians and others, mainly from other services, who begrudge the Marine Corps being recognized, by name, as a member of the Department of the Navy.
What service is yet required from us to gain that small bit of separate identity?
As a counterpoint: the first Army aviator flew in 1909, the Army Air Corps was established in 1926, and the U.S. Air Force was birthed in 1947 – a grand total of 38 years from start to finish.
should have been done years ago i hope it goes thru
Sirs I would like to support this initiative but I have supported a veterans group solicitation by donating some money in the past and that organization gave or sold my name and address to other organizations and now I receive 5 to 10 solicitations to support so called vet’s groups. This is the only reason I won’t sign on.
I completely support the purpose of your cause and wish you the best
Thomas Hatzeson CAPT DC USNR.RET.
Assigned to 3rd Marine Air Wing El Toro Ca
1959 to1961
I wrote to my senator, Dianne Feinstein, and this is the response I received:
Dear Ms. McKowen:
Thank you for writing to express your support for the redesignation of the Department of the Navy as the Department of the Navy and Marine Corps. I appreciate hearing from you on this topic, and welcome the opportunity to respond.
Like you, I greatly admire the honorable work that the men and women of the Navy and Marine Corps are performing in service to our nation, and it is certainly appropriate to recognize such service wherever appropriate. As you may know, the House and Senate recently met in a Conference Committee and reconciled the differences between their respective versions of the fiscal year 2010 National Defense Authorization Act. During the conference, negotiators determined that they would not include an amendment to redesignate the Department of the Navy as the Department of the Navy and the Marine Corps in the final version of the bill.
While this provision was not included in the conference report, you may be interested to learn that Senator Pat Roberts (R-KS) has proposed other legislation that, if enacted, would make this change (S. 504). Currently, this bill is pending consideration by the Senate Committee on Armed Services, on which I do not serve. Be assured that I have noted your support for this change, and will keep your thoughts in mind should the full Senate have an opportunity to debate this bill.
Again, thank you for writing. I hope that you will continue to write on matters of importance to you. Should you have any further comments or questions, please feel free to contact my Washington, D.C. office at (202) 224-3841. Best regards.
Sincerely yours,
Dianne Feinstein
United States Senator
If I read this correctly, S.504 is still alive, even though the change was not put in this year’s Defense authorization. Here’s hoping they’ll pass it. Even though the petition says that it would not change Defense authorizations, there would be considerable expense involved, when it comes to changing all the paperwork (letterhead, forms, business cards, for example). There would probably be other expenses as well, that I am not cognizant of right now. I’m sure it’s minimal in comparison to the entire Defense budget, but it is still a cost to be considered.
I thank you for this chance to give my feelings about this small change in the Corps’ ability to converse with the public….and with the other military forces…..I wish this had been done years ago. Thanks to all responsible.
I totally concur with this small change………and will continue to state that after 30 years in the Corps….We certainly could have used this title….Let us win this one!!!
Marine corps needs to stand out
As the Mom and wife of Marines, I was, needless to say, surprised to find that other Marine Moms and wifes have been receiving letters as described. Because of the proud heritage of the Marine Corps and in recognition of the distinction of the Marines, it is important that our legislators recognize this with the additon of three simple words. I know that it would mean so much to Marines and their families everywhere. “Once a Marine, always a Marine . . . The few, the proud, the Marines.” I thank all of our senators and representatives who support this effort.
Dear Sir/Madam: It is about time for this change.
Semper Fi,
Joey Wingate, USMC/MGySgt/Retirede
I served as Navy Corpsman with the 2nd Marine Division. The marines that I served with were my brothers. We stood for each other. I applaud their request with the change to include and Marine Corps, they have earned it.
Arthur Wiggin
As a Marine Corps Veteran, who has served my country and my Corps,and as a past department Commandant for the Department of Arkansas Marine Corps league, i believe it is way over due that the corps and all of its fallen heroes to get the recitation they deserve, and to let the would know we are and ill always be so to friend and foe Semper Fi, and carry on Gunny Howrah