Jeffrey Cleland

The Marine Corps' 250th Birthday: Honoring the Proud Legacy of the Few and the Faithful

I have experienced many things in my life, but few have made me as proud as being an 0331 with 2nd Battalion, 8th Marines (Fox Co.). The 250th birthday of the United States Marine Corps holds deep personal significance for me. The Marines' history is one of unyielding courage, unwavering discipline, and an uncompromising dedication to the mission - values that are seared into the heart of every Marine.

When I think back to my time in the Al Anbar province, I remember the harsh conditions, sleepless nights, danger hiding around every corner, and the weight of responsibility that came with our mission. But through it all, my fellow Marines never faltered. We were the "Few" and the "Faithful" - a brotherhood forged in the crucible of combat, united by an ethos that has endured for a quarter-millennium.

As one of my fellow Marines once said, "We don't just defend freedom, we are freedom's shield." That sentiment captures the very essence of what it means to be a United States Marine. No matter the obstacle, no matter the cost, Marines will always answer the call to protect and defend the ideals upon which this nation was founded.

On this historic anniversary, I am humbled to have played a small part in that storied tradition. As we celebrate 250 years of unparalleled success, let us be inspired to uphold that ethos, and continue writing the next chapter in the Marines' legacy of excellence.

Semper Fidelis

Jeffrey Cleland

Cpl., USMC (ret)

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About the Author

Jeff Cleland is a Senior Manager of Transportation Public Policy at Amazon where he leads state-level policy advocacy for surface transportation, drone delivery, and infrastructure. He joined Amazon in 2019 where he led engagement for the Northeast states during a time of immense growth for the company.

Prior to joining Amazon, Cleland served as the Chief of Staff at the Maryland Department of Transportation’s State Highway Administration, and agency that manages and maintains the state’s highway and bridge network. Before entering public service, Cleland worked in the military/veteran policy space as the Manager of Research and Policy at the George W. Bush Institutes Military Service Initiative and Director of Innovation and Operations at Syracuse University’s Institute for Veterans and Military Families.

Cleland enlisted in the Marine Corps in 2005 directly out of high school. He served as an 0331 infantry machine gunner in 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, F Company and deployed to Iraq’s Anbar Province in 2006-2007 in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. He received a Combat Action Ribbon, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, and a Certificate of Commendation.

Cleland holds an A.A. from Onondaga Community College, a B.A. from Syracuse University, and an MPA from The Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs at Syracuse University. He resides in Maryland with his wife Kimberly and three children; Colton, Charlotte, and Vivian.