"The Few, the Proud": So says the motto of the U.S. Marine Corps, and so it is. The Marines are the smallest branch of the U.S. armed forces, but their reputation outmatches their size. Today, the marines celebrate their 235th anniversary, born before the country was in 1775.

The Marine Corps makes up less than 11 percent of the U.S. military but more than 23 percent of the Americans killed in action in Iraq and Afghanistan,

Around the world, Marines celebrate the day with a tradition, the oldest Marine takes the first bite of birthday cake decorated with the U.S. Marine logo and then passes it on to the youngest Marine.

A more somber birthday note has been making the Facebook rounds:

"Say a prayer for 'Darkhorse' 3rd Battalion 5th Marines and their families. They are fighting it out in Afghanistan and have lost 9 marines in 4 days. Please re-post this."

The loss has been even heavier than that. Thirteen members of the troop have been killed since the battalion hit the Sangin area of northeastern Helmand province in October.

A message from the commandant USMC, Semper Fi Marines 

In honor of the United States Marine Corps’ 235th birthday, we devote space today to presentation of the traditional message from the commandant.

This year, the honor falls to Gen. James F. Amos, who took over as the Marine Corps’ 35th commandant on Oct. 22.

SIXTY YEARS AGO, the United States Marine Corps — as it has throughout our history   — demonstrated its vital role as America’s Expeditionary Force in Readiness. Just weeks after North Korean Communist forces   crossed the 38th Parallel, the First Marine Provisional Brigade landed in South Korea, forming the backbone of the perimeter around the city of Pusan. The efforts of the “Fire Brigade” at Pusan allowed for the daring amphibious landing at Inchon and set the stage for one of the most savage campaigns in our Corps’ history — the Chosin Reservoir. As we pause to celebrate our 235th Birthday, we pay special tribute to the Marines of the Korean War and recognize their contributions to our enduring legacy.

This past year marked the end of Marine Corps combat operations in   Iraq. Beginning with the invasion in March 2003 and through the next seven years of fighting, our Corps acquitted itself valiantly in the Anbar province and throughout the country. Locations such as Fallujah and Ramadi have taken their place in the illustrious battle history of our Corps. Our efforts in defeating the insurgency helped to build a brighter future for all Iraqis.

For 235 years, at sea and ashore, Marines have succeeded in every clime and place … where hardship and adversity have often been the common thread. Today, in the rugged mountains and valleys of Afghanistan — and recently in earthquakedamaged Haiti… in floodravaged Pakistan… or off the coast of Africa — we continue to protect our Nation, just as we did 60   years ago in Korea.

To the Marines and Sailors deployed overseas, to those training and preparing for their next deployment and to the warriors who no longer wear our uniform… we honor your selfless service to the Nation. To our loved ones who endure the many difficulties that come with being part of the Marine Family, I want to extend my sincerest thanks for all you have done and all you continue to do.

Happy 235th Birthday, Marines!

Semper Fidelis,

James F. Amos

General,

U.S. Marine Corps