During the Revolutionary War, a committee of the Second Continental Congress determined the need for an organized infantry that could provide additional security for the newly founded Continental Navy. In a small Philadelphia tavern, the committee drafted a resolution calling for the creation of two battalions of Marines that could support naval forces on land and at sea. On November 10, 1775, the resolution establishing the Continental Marines was passed, marking the creation of what is now the United States Marine Corps.
In the Revolutionary War and conflicts that followed, the Marines gained recognition for their immense capability and unmatched versatility in warfighting. While originally established to augment the Navy, the Marine Corps gradually took on new roles and formed into an independent fighting force, specializing in rapid deployment, close-quarter combat, and amphibious assault operations. By the 20th century, the Marines had begun leading their own operations, oftentimes relied upon to conduct expeditionary missions or fight in urban engagements. Though Marines have played an important role in nearly every American conflict, their most notable contribution was in the Pacific Theater during World War II. The branch once comprised of just two battalions deployed tens of thousands of troops during the island-hopping campaign and helped secure Allied victories in pivotal operations including the battles of Tarawa, Okinawa, and Iwo Jima.
Today, the Marine Corps’ multifunctionality has only furthered, allowing the branch to perform a range of combative and non-combative operations. In times of war, Marines are able to engage threats by land, sea, or air and implement innovative tactics that have shaped modern militaries around the world. Beyond the battlefield, Marines commonly conduct humanitarian aid missions following natural disasters, evacuate U.S. citizens from dangerous situations, and provide security for more than 180 embassies. The Marine Corps also plays a key role in the United States’ counter-narcotics and anti-trafficking efforts both domestically and abroad, partnering with government organizations to disrupt smuggling operations.
Illinois State Representative Brandun Schweizer (R-Danville) served in the Marine Corps for 21 years and achieved the rank of Master Sergeant before retiring from service. Rep. Schweizer’s time spent defending our country has led him to become a vocal advocate of veterans in Illinois and support important legislation to improve the lives of those who risked theirs.
As a member of the Illinois General Assembly, Rep. Schweizer has sponsored several notable bills that seek to improve the lives of veterans in Illinois, including SB 2751 which removes permit fees for veterans making home improvements, SB 3479 which protects veterans from targeted scams, and HB 4128 which grants paid leave to veterans on Veterans Day. Rep. Schweizer has also sponsored bills that support the families of veterans such as HB 1154 which provides that surviving spouses of veterans with service connected disabilities do not have to reapply for the veterans homestead exemption.
“The safety and freedom we all so deeply cherish were paid for through tremendous sacrifices made by members of our armed forces,” said Rep. Schweizer. “Legislating on behalf of veterans is the least we can do for those who risked their lives to defend our country.”
As we celebrate the Marine Corps’ birthday, we recognize the important role the branch has played in defending our nation and remember the sacrifices made by so many who have worn the Eagle, Glove, and Anchor. As we reflect upon those sacrifices, let us give thought to how we can continue to support our active military members, veterans, and their families.
Every Marine lives by the motto “Semper Fidelis,” or “always faithful,” a commitment to proficiency in battle, love of country, and loyalty to one another. This November 10, our nation honors the faithful men and women who have valiantly defended our freedoms at home and abroad for 249 years.