US Marine Corps marks 251st birthday as leaders push for more amphibious ships
The gist
The US Marine Corps celebrated its 251st birthday on Nov. 10 with ceremonies nationwide.
Leaders say 31 amphibious ships fall short of keeping three Marine units deployed.
How it unfolded
- Nov 10, 1775The Second Continental Congress resolves that "two Battalions of Marines be raised" to serve as landing forces for the fleet, founding the Continental Marines.
- 1798After a brief disbanding following the Revolutionary War, Congress permanently re-establishes the Corps.
- Aug 1946World War II veterans found the Sgt. Angel Mendez Marine Corps League Detachment 246 on Staten Island.
Key terms
- amphibious ships
- A warship designed to land and support ground forces, such as marines, on enemy territory during an amphibious assault.
- Second Continental Congress
- A 1775–1781 meeting of delegates from the Thirteen Colonies that supported the American Revolution and established American independence.
- Revolutionary War
- The armed conflict in which American Patriot forces defeated the British Army and won independence for the Thirteen Colonies.
Source: Wikipedia