Today—November 10, 2025—Marines everywhere celebrate a milestone that’s rare in American history: 250 years since the founding of the Marine Corps. Celebrating Marine Heritage is more than just a title; it’s an acknowledgment of a journey that started in a Philadelphia tavern and evolved into a legacy built on grit, loyalty, and an unbreakable bond with the nation. Through every war and every crisis, the Marines have lived up to their motto: Semper Fidelis. Always Faithful.
Born in a Tavern, Forged in Battle
It all began on November 10, 1775, at Tun Tavern in Philadelphia. Celebrating its Marine heritage, the Continental Congress decided to raise two battalions of Marines to serve as naval infantry. Captain Samuel Nicholas, a former Quaker innkeeper, became the first Marine officer. His friend Robert Mullan, who managed the tavern, jumped in as chief recruiter. Together, they promised adventure and purpose, attracting sharpshooters—mostly 100 men from Rhode Island—to serve aboard Continental Navy ships.
These first Marines weren’t just soldiers; they were marksmen and boarding-party fighters, setting a high bar for the Corps’ reputation at sea. The original Tun Tavern stood by Philadelphia’s waterfront until 1781, when it burned down. Today, there’s a highway—Interstate 95—where it once stood, but a marker on Front Street keeps the memory alive.
This year, commemorative events in Philadelphia’s Old City honored the Marine Corps’ birthplace at Tun Tavern. While the original tavern no longer stands, several heritage projects and temporary exhibits have recreated its spirit for the 250th anniversary.
From Continental Marines to Modern Force
After the Revolution, the Corps almost disappeared. Congress disbanded the Continental Marines for 15 years. But trouble with Barbary pirates and French naval forces brought them back in 1798. It was a pivotal comeback in Marine history.
From then on, the Marines never looked back. The 19th century gave the Marine Corps its legendary moments. In 1805, they stormed the shores of Tripoli—America’s first overseas fight—defeating Barbary pirates.
They fought through the War of 1812, defending cities like Washington and Baltimore. Marines raised the flag over the Halls of Montezuma during the Mexican-American War, earning a place in the Marines’ Hymn that still gets sung today.
The 20th and 21st centuries?
Just one hard-fought chapter after another. Marines hit the beaches at Belleau Wood, Iwo Jima, and Inchon; they battled at Chosin Reservoir and in the streets of Fallujah. Sacrifice, courage, and brotherhood are written into every page of that history. Today’s Marines stand ready for anything, anywhere—America’s first responders to crisis.
Semper Fidelis: More Than Words
In 1883, Colonel Charles McCawley, the eighth Commandant of the Marine Corps, officially adopted the motto “Semper Fidelis,” which is Latin for “Always Faithful.” This replaced earlier mottos:
- “Fortitudine” means “With Fortitude” or “With Courage,” highlighting bravery and resilience.
- “Per Mare, Per Terram” translates to “By Sea, By Land,” emphasizing the Marines’ roles in both naval and land operations, a phrase inspired by the British Royal Marines.
“Semper Fidelis” was chosen because “Always Faithful” captured a more profound sense of unwavering loyalty to fellow Marines, the Corps, and the nation.
It Binds Generations Together
It’s not just a phrase; it’s the heartbeat of the Corps. Marines greet each other with “Semper Fi.” They use it to say hello, goodbye, or to remind each other what they stand for.
John Philip Sousa wrote the “Semper Fidelis March” in 1888, back when he directed the Marine Band. It’s been the official march of the Marine Corps since 1889. The tune plays at parades and ceremonies, echoing the pride and tradition of the Marines every time the band strikes up.
Once a Marine, Always a Marine
Ask a Marine about their service, and they’ll set you straight—there’s no such thing as a “former” or “ex-Marine.” Once you earn the Eagle, Globe, and Anchor, it’s for life.
General James Amos, the 35th Commandant, put it well: “A Marine is a Marine. There’s no such thing as a former Marine. You’re a Marine, just in a different uniform and a different phase of your life. But you’ll always be a Marine because you went to Parris Island, San Diego, or the hills of Quantico.”
The sense of brotherhood originates from the crucible of boot camp or Officer Candidate School (OCS). That experience breaks you down and builds you up—no one forgets it. The bonds forged there last a lifetime. The sentiment is central to Marine identity and officially recognized in the Marine Corps ethos.
Chaplain Father Kevin Keaney famously said, “You cannot exaggerate about the Marines. They are convinced to the point of arrogance that they are the finest military outfit in the world—and the Marines have the credentials to prove it.”
Editor: It’s true; once a Marine, always a Marine. I married one.
This is an excellent 10-minute video shared by Marine Bill Newell, formerly of Hopkinton.
