WEBVTT

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Happy birthday Marine
sailors, family, and friends.

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I'm currently standing
on the hallowed fighting

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grounds of Obyan Chulu, or
known as White Beach, too.

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In 1944 amphibious Marine forces were off

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the islands of Saipan, Tinian, and Guam.

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On the evening of 23 July,
Naval forces conducted

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faint maneuver followed by Naval gunfire.

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These actions tricked the Japanese into

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believing that the landing would occur

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on the eastern side of the island.

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The following day, fourth Marine division

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with second Marine division in trace,

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stormed the western beach of Obyan Chulu

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with little resistance.

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Marines fought hard over the coming days,

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seizing the island on 30 July.

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18,000 Seabees then
landed and quickly erected

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the North Field Air Base,

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located several miles from my position.

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This strategic point served
as the air base which

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B-29 super fortresses would later launch,

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bringing the war in the Pacific to an end.

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It is very fitting that
shock troops have once again

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landed on Tinian, but this
time, as an act of humanity.

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Taking care of the great
Americans of Tinian.

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Super Typhoon Yutu had devastating effects

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that battered the island,
and its courageous residents.

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The Marines have worked hard
at restoring the island's

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beauty, and re-instilling
hope, joy, and American spirit.

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As Marines, it is our sworn
duty to protect and defend

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our nation and its commonwealth.

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To quote secretary Mattis,
when the Marines arrive,

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you have no better
friend, or no worse enemy.

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You the 31st MUE, are
ready, at a moments notice,

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to respond to crisis, you
are the harbingers of peace,

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and the Spartans of War.

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I am humbled to serve with
you, our Nation's Finest.

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It is an honor to witness
your dedication to God,

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family, country, and core.

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Each one of you are incredibly
important to our mission,

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and your daily actions of
service and commitment to each

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other, make us the finest
fighting force in the world.

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To our 31st MUE families, your
service is truly remarkable.

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The hours of toiling,
waiting for your marine or

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sailor to return, is a true
act of love, and understanding.

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You're the unsung heroes
that didn't sign up for this,

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but serve out of purity of
heart and love for family.

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Marines, sailors, spouses,
sons, and daughters,

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be proud of who you are, and
all that you do for each other,

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and for our great nation.

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This 243rd Marine Core
birthday celebration is

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ours to share as a family.

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Let us never forget those who've given the

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ultimate sacrifice for our freedom.

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And honor the legacy of the men and women

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whose professionalism has made us

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the few, the proud, the Marines.

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31st MUE, can do.
Semper Fidelis, Godspeed.