By the Numbers: 236 Years

Today, the United States Marine Corps celebrates its 236th birthday.

The Marine Corps was established before the United States even ratified its Constitution--the Contintenal Congress established two battalions of Marines in 1775 to assist the fledging naval forces in the Revolutionary War. As the country grew, so did the Marines. Today's Marine Corps helps defend our nation on the ground, in the air, and by sea, and is known as America's Expedtionary Force in Readiness because of its ability to respond rapidly whenever the nation calls.

Today, we thank our Marines, both active and retired, for their service and contributions in protecting our country. As we approach Veterans Day, it's important we remember the contributions made by all our servicemembers in all branches of the military. We owe these veterans all the help we can give once they return to civilian life, including helping them find jobs in today's tough economic times. President Obama has challenged the private sector to hire or train 100,000 veterans, and his Administration lauched a host of initiatives this week that help connect veterans with jobs and career support. Just today, Congress passed the Returning Heroes and Wounded Warrior tax credits, two pieces of the American Jobs Act that provide tax credits to businesses that hire veterans.

We can't wait to help our veterans, because no veteran who fought for our nation should have to fight for a job when they come home.