A Long and Proud History
The history of the Marine Corps is unique and glorious, pre-dating even the birth of our nation. The first official Marines were commissioned by the Continental Congress on November 10, 1775, and described in this way:
Resolved: That two Battalions of Marines be raised... That they be enlisted and commissioned for and during the present war between Great Britain and the colonies, unless dismissed by order of Congress. That they be distinguished by the names of the first & second battalions of American Marines, and that they be considered a part of the number, which the continental Army before Boston is ordered to consist of.
As president of the Continental Congress, John Hancock then appointed Captain Samuel Nicholas the first commandant of the Corps. Nichols promptly set up headquarters at the Tun Tavern in Philadelphia, and began to recruit Marines. From there, the Marine Corps history has become synonymous with the history of our great land, protecting our freedoms against all who have opposed them.
