In the words of President John F. Kennedy, “In the long history of the world, only a few generations have been granted the role of defending freedom in its hour of maximum danger.”

Throughout our Nation’s life, magnificent heroes have fought for our and others freedom in places like the wheat fields of Belleau Wood, the snows of Chosin in Korea, and the streets of Hue City, Vietnam — and now in Afghanistan and Iraq. Today, this generation lives up to the legacy of those who have gone before.  

Frankly, there was a time when some of us “old timers” talked about how we were unsure if this new generation of servicemen and women had what it took to hold up in combat. They were the “joystick generation” — accused of not having enough PT, spending a lot of time watching TV, and not enough time outdoors.  But, make no mistake, we were wrong.  I have seen these brave men and women do things in combat that would literally bring a tear to your eye. Their sense of courage, responsibility, and team play are as fine as any other generation that has fought for this country.  I am confident that as they grow to positions of greater responsibility in our Service — and indeed, our Nation — that our country will be good hands.  

I am exceedingly proud and humbled by the resiliency of our Marines and of patriots all across the country who believe that defending this great Nation is a noble calling.  The Marine Corps continues to grow its numbers ahead of schedule and in keeping with our high standards. 

Clearly, our Marines and their families are telling us that they know there is a job to do, and they are sticking with it.  After over six years of combat, we have retained a battle-hardened force with strong belief that we are engaged in a just fight.  Firsthand, they have seen the enemy’s ruthlessness and understand that we are grappling with an enemy who is bent on regional and ultimately global domination.  

While our Marines remain actively engaged in the fight, our families continue to do the heavy-lifting here at home.  They endure a whole host of hardships associated with military life and have my utmost respect and appreciation for all they do. With the continued support of the American people, our families.

On this Memorial, I salute the fighting men and women of all services and their families. It is fitting that we as a Nation take the time to honor those who have given all in defense of their country. They heard the call, marched to the sound of the guns, and remained resolved to their fellow countrymen and women. As Marines, Sailors, Soldiers, Airmen, and Coastguardsmen from all over this Nation continue to fight theseopening battles of the Long War, we re-dedicate ourselves to the memory and legacy of those who have gone before and re-commit ourselves to work together to preserve it for future generations.

Conway is the U.S. Marine Corps commandant.