A Sense of Patriotism and Pride
What does the 250th Marine Corps Birthday, mean to me? It’s a time to give honor to our past, present, and future. November 10, 2025, is momentous milestone and a time to reflect on how far the Marine Corps has come in past 250 years.
As with every year, as a Marine it’s is a time to reflect on the Corps' rich history and traditions, and to celebrate the service and sacrifices of Marines past and present. However, unlike every year, this is a year of huge significates. The 250th Birthday is opportunity to celebrate truly how far the Marine Corps has come as well as our Nation; and the promise of what tomorrow will bring. Our rich history of the past help shape our traditions that are celebrated today. On this historic occasion I think of the Marines that have paved the way, and others that gave the ultimate sacrifice.
To this day, I am still inspired by the Marine Corps Hymn, General LeJeune, our 13th Commandant of the Marine Corps, Birthday Message, and of course the playing of our National Anthem. It provokes a sense of pride and camaraderie that is unwavering. It embodies the overall sense of esprit-de-corps that I have and feel to be a part of the 250th Marine Corps celebration.
No matter what the future holds, Marines will continue to protect, serve, and safeguard our Nation with the upmost respect. Marines will always be “Soldiers of the Sea”, and I will always be grateful for having served wearing the Eagle, Goble, and Anchor.
Thank you,
Lawrence C. Clark Jr. (MSgt. Ret)
About the Author
MSgt.(ret) Lawrence Clark Jr. joined the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) in 2013. He supports the agency mission of overseeing lawful immigration to the United States under his role as a Management and Program Analyst. Lawrence provides technical assistance at the headquarters level with assessing organizational performance through various metrics and indicators, helping leaders identify areas for improvement and ensure alignment with strategic goals in the integrity of the immigration system every day by providing services that change lives and safeguard our Nation. His contributions allow USCIS to deliver decisions to individuals from around the world.
Prior to joining USCIS, he devoted 24 years to the United States Marine Corps as a Master Sergeant. While in uniform he was responsible for managing recruitment objectives, officer placement, participated in the Officer College Loan Repayment Program, and served as a Uniform Victim Advocate. Lawrence retired at Headquarters Marine Corps Recruiting Command (MCRC) in Quantico Virginia, as an Officer Programs Operations Chief.
Lawrence earned his bachelor’s degree in Organizational and Leadership Management from Columbia Southern University.
