Monday, November 11, 2019

A Veteran's Day Salute from David N. Dinkins, former U.S. Marine and New York City Mayor


Every Veteran's Day, we salute our heroes and commemorate traditions that define those called to serve.  This Veteran's Day, I commend and salute members of all branches of the US Armed Services for their exceptional service to our country and the tremendous sacrifices they continue to make each day to guarantee the safety of this great nation. Because of their sacrifice, we, the people of the United States, will not succumb to fear, be held hostage by threats terror, or attacks on our cities or government.

It is important that we recognize the tremendous sacrifices that the families of these men and women make every day.  They, too, are heroes in service to our country as they endure the journey of those perilous roads with their unflagging dedication and commitment to their loved ones.  These families stand as a testament to the power of the human spirit and this great nation.

I salute as well as add my voice to the collective celebration of the 244th Birthday of the U.S. Marine Corps, the 54th Anniversary of the National Montford Point Marine Association, and the 52nd Anniversary of the New York Metropolitan Chapter - of which I am a proud member.

After a lifetime in public service, my experience as a Montford Point Marine has never failed to serve me. In the words of General Leonard F. Chapman, Jr, USMC of the 24th Commandant of the United States Marine Corps:

“The footprints of the Montford Point Marines were left on the beaches of Roi-Namur, Saipan, Guam, Peleliu, Iwo Jima, and Okinawa.  The tides and winds have, long ago, washed them out into the seas of history; but, “The Chosen Few” in field shoes and canvas leggings, also left their marks in the firm concrete of Marine Corps history.  And as new generations of Marines learn to march in those footprints, their cadence assumes the proud stride of the men of Montford Point."

God Bless America and Semper Fidelis!

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