[spetznaz]

Europeans paid tribute to the Barbary pirates, because it was cheaper than confronting them. Jefferson was unable to create an international coalition to rid the world of that problem, so, Guess what? He acted "unilaterally". One result is in the first line of the Marine Corps hymn.

Hey Vab, you need to post the hymn pronto.

There is something about the USMC that is so amazing. I respect all branches of armed service in the US, but i seem to hold the Marines with an almost fanatical sense of reverence. I have met my share of marines, and a couple are friends, and all are the craziest but bravest son-a-guns one could ever find. Either the Marines attract a certain type or it converts enlisters to a higher form of manhood.

Either way, although i have not earned the right to say it, 'Semper Fidelis.'

Semper Fi.

[kitkat]

From the Halls of Montezuma
To the Shores of Tripoli;
We fight our country's battles
In the air, on land and sea;
First to fight for right and freedom
And to keep our honor clean;
We are proud to claim the title
of United States Marine.

[oh8eleven]

Either the Marines attract a certain type or it converts enlisters to a higher form of manhood.
The former is probably more true than the latter. I was USMC mid to late 60s and still miss them.
I'd go back in a heartbeat. Semper Fi ...