Semper Fidelis for 236 Years

Today is the 236th Birthday of the United States Marine Corps, in which I had the privilege to serve from 1963 to 1967.

This portion of Birthday message from Marine Commandant Gen. James Amos is worth reflecting on today, when about half of 1 percent of the population serves in any service branch:

"Our rich heritage of selfless service and fidelity to Nation and to one another lives

on in all who currently wear the Eagle, Globe and Anchor -- those who have answered the clarion call to duty with remarkable courage, dedication and unshakable resolve that

Marines are so well known for. To all Marines -- past and present -- and especially to our

Families . . . I extend my deep gratitude for all you have done and all you continue to do."

And, since there is no such thing as an ex-Marine, I stand ready today to answer once again a clarion call to duty if Gen. Amos needs a seasoned (a better word than old) field radio operator.