CONGRATULATIONS to all of the Marines here at Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa and around the world as you celebrate the 237th birthday of the United States Marine Corps.

As our Marine Corps brethren know well, it all started in a pub known as Tun Tavern when Captain Samuel Nicholas raised a glass and began recruiting able, seaworthy warriors to fill two battalions of Marines as landing forces for the Continental Naval Service against the British. Since then, U.S. Marines have served in every one of America's armed conflicts. Your ethos and commitment are legendary; you are truly the most dominant force in amphibious warfare on the globe.

Here in East Africa, America's Marines are vital to accomplishing our two-fold mission of defeating violent extremist organizations and transnational threats, and strengthening the operational and institutional capabilities of our partner militaries. I'm proud to serve on this joint team with so many of you wearing the Eagle, Globe and Anchor. Together our efforts to promote security in this region keep Americans safe and help underwrite the larger, U.S. government and multi-national efforts to improve governance, economic prosperity and the quality of life for East Africans.

Today's Marines are the culmination of a warrior ethos that has accepted and bested the toughest challenges that could be thrown at them. Each day, you demonstrate your continued commitment to your families and loved ones who support you, The Corps that has shaped you, and a Nation that appreciates you unfailingly. It is that commitment we all honor when we say, "Once a Marine, always a Marine."

So, please join me in wishing our Marines my heartiest congratulations on this, their 237th birthday. On behalf of all of your joint teammates here at CJTF-HOA, we look forward to serving alongside you - now and for many years to come. Semper Fidelis.

Respectfully,

MG Ralph (Rob) Baker, USA
Commander, Combined JTF-Horn of Africa
Djibouti, Africa