The Marine Corps has been protecting America's freedom and acting as a symbol of strength since 1775. The United States Marine Corps is a force of greatness, linked to the words freedom and justice, sworn to protect every American soul. Marines fought on land, in the air and at sea for their country, and many brave men and women lost their lives in the line of fire. These courageous soldiers are led by intelligent officers who are strong leaders, quick decision makers and possess great mental strength. The young men and women who have the privilege of being Marine Corps officers face many challenges on their journey to greatness, but many travel this path and benefit greatly from the experience. The Marine Corps was initially created as a landing force for the Navy fleet on November 10, 1775, although at the time they were called the Continental Marines. At first these brave soldiers served on land and at sea, taking part in many important operations under their first commander, Captain Samuel Nicholas. In March 1776, the Corps made its first amphibious raid on foreign soil in the Bahamas, marking the change in the American style of warfare. Although in 1783 the Treaty of Paris ended the Revolutionary War and when the Navy sold the last of its ships, both the Continental Navy and the Marines were disbanded. Despite this unfortunate turn of events, the Marines made a strong comeback later in our nation's history; on 11 July 1798 the Corps was reconstituted and fought in conflicts alongside France, landed in Santo Domingo and fought against the Barbary pirates along the famous "Rive di Tripoli". The Corps has made a significant difference in many of our nation's darkest times; during the War of 1812 the Marines took part in numbers......middle of paper......hardy, physically strong and durable. “The United States Marine Corps, with its proud tradition of combat excellence, its sacred rituals, and its unyielding code of honor, is part of the fabric of the American myth.” –Thomas E. Ricks; Making the Corps, 1997.Works CitedCorps, Marine. marineparents.com. 30 3 2014. 30 3 2014 .Body, Navy. marines.com. 30 3 2014. 30 3 2014 .—. marines.mil. 30 3 2014. 30 3 2014 .Doeden, Matt. The United States Marine Corps. Mankato: Capstone Press, 2005.Kwan, First Lieutenant Ryan. So You Want My Job: Brent and Kate McKay, Marine Corps Officer. 13 10 2010.Unknown. globalsecurity.org. 30 3 2014. 30 3 2014 .—. lifeasamarine.com. 30 3 2014. 30 3 2014 .