Semper Fidelis

In this media firestorm that has surrounded the reports of unlawful engagement of unarmed civilians in Haditha, I just wanted to take this time to say that I support the Marines and all that they stand for. They have protected America's honor and they have sacrificed for liberty ever since their inception in 1775. The main stream media, along with such characters as John Murtha (a former Marine), have already tried and convicted these Marines before the official investigation has even concluded.
John Murtha calls them murderers who 'killed in cold blood', the media has used terms like, 'Blinded by hate', 'Massacre', and 'The Shame of Kilo Company' to paint a vivid picture of an incident that we do not even have all facts.

The authorities are investigating and I am confident that they will prosecute to the fullest extent of the law if these allegations are found to be true, but to jump ahead of the investigations and perform a media trial instead of an investigation and trial in a judiciary does everyone a dis-service...especially those serving honorably in this war.

So to the hundreds of thousands of soldiers, marines, sailors, and airmen who have served honorably in this war on terror I continue to support and defend you. I am grateful for your service and sacrifice. May the Lord bless each and every one of you. May He give you courage under fire and wisdom under stressful conditions and circumstances. May HE protect you all and bring you home with the honor you so deserve.

Semer Fi'!

THE MARINE HYMN

From the Halls of Montezuma
To the shores of Tripoli
We fight our country's battles
In the air on land and sea.
First to fight for right and freedom
And to keep our honor clean;
We are proud to bear the title
Of United States Marines.

Our flag's unfurled to every breeze
From dawn to setting sun;
We have fought in every clime and place
Where we could take a gun.
In the snow of far-off Northern lands
And in sunny tropic scenes;
You will find us always on the job --
The United States Marines.

Here's health to you and to our Corps
Which we are proud to serve;
In many a strife we've fought for life
And never lost our nerve.
If the Army and the Navy
Ever look on Heaven's scenes,
They will find the streets are guarded
By United States Marines.

Mike D.