Marines Trace Routes to Philadelphia
The Marines were previously not as well-known, formidable fighting force across the globe as they are today. The long and colorful history of the Marines can be traced back to November 10, 1775, in a modest Philadelphia bar known as Tun Tavern. It was on that particular site where the United States Marine Corps was born. Prior to that day, the term “marine” had varied connotations, it could have referred to marine pirates, rebels, raiders, or the renowned Royal British Marines. From that historic day, the U.S. Marines were tasked to be the Navy’s defense and close quarter combat fighting was heavily emphasized in their training.
For more than a hundred years the Marines took part in every major battle as they fought guerillas, pirates, and other adversaries of the United States. Prior to the U.S. entry into World War II, the American government considered to abolish the Marines. However, public clamor after the war saved the Marine Corps and forced the government to keep them in existence. It is the American people’s love and support for the Marines that gave them their distinct stature that they enjoy to date. But they also earned their reputation. A quick glimpse at what the Marine Corps has achieved should “wow” anyone. Each negative attribute that has been tagged to the Marines has been transformed into a complement. At one time they have been called “devil dogs” by the Germans, others have referred to them as “jarheads” and “leathernecks.” All these monikers were meant to be disparaging but the Marines brushed them aside and have turned them into tabs of tough, rugged pride.
From their humble beginnings, the Marines are now highly regarded worldwide, they strike fear into the heart of the enemy and they provide a sense of confidence for Americans and their allies. Today, the word Marines is almost always linked to the United States Marines.
