It has been a week of celebration and remembrance at the U.S. Embassy. On Friday, the Embassy community and guests came together to celebrate the 238th birthday of the United States Marine Corps. And this week, on Veterans Day, we remembered all those who have served the United States in our armed forces.
I am grateful to the Marine Security Guards who protect our Embassy.
On November 10, 1775, in the midst of the American Revolution, the U.S. Marine Corps was established. We celebrate the birthday of the Marines Corps because the Marines have earned a special place in the hearts of the American people. No matter how difficult and dangerous a mission may be, these courageous men and women are always prepared to serve when our country needs them. The Marines truly live up to their motto “Semper Fidelis,” which means “Always Faithful.”
Gunnery Sergeant James Back (left) has done a remarkable job leading U.S. Embassy Phnom Penh’s Marine Security Detachment.
In addition to their security role, our Marines contribute to U.S. engagement with the Cambodian people. My favorite example is the Marines’ Toys for Tots program. Last December, U.S. Embassy Phnom Penh’s Marine Security Guard Detachment collected over 70 toys from donations and delivered them to orphaned children just in time for the holiday season. We are very proud to have the Marines as part of our Embassy community. All of them serve our country with pride and integrity, and we are tremendously grateful for their service.
On Veterans Day last year, President Obama visited the Arlington National Cemetery and laid a wreath on the Tomb of Unknowns, a monument dedicated to American service members who have died without their remains being identified.
Yesterday, our attention turned from celebration to remembrance when we observed Veterans Day. This U.S. holiday is dedicated to all the men and women who have served in our armed forces. It is a day when Americans reflect on the sacrifices our veterans have made in order to defend our country, our citizens, and our values. On Veterans Day, I am always reminded of the words engraved in the Korean War Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C.: “Freedom is not free.” We owe a deep gratitude to the extraordinary and selfless service of our nation’s veterans, as well as active duty and reserve members of the U.S. military. As President Obama said in his proclamation this year, “We celebrate their immeasurable contributions, draw inspiration from their example, and renew our commitment to showing them the fullest support of a grateful Nation.”
To all of our Marines, to our Veterans, and to our active duty and reserve military personnel, I am truly grateful for your service to the U.S. Embassy, to the United States, and to the people of Cambodia.
