Gunnery Sergeant Morales. Marine Security Guard Detachment Copenhagen. Our special guests tonight, Admiral Jensen, and Colonel Fleischer. Ladies and Gentlemen.

The United States Marine Corps was founded in 1775. Tonight we celebrate its 228th anniversary. From Copenhagen to Cairo, from Beijing to Brasilia, Marines watch over the embassies of the United States of America.

For the Embassy staff and their families the sight of the Marine on duty is both reassuring and comforting. Day after day, the Marines at Embassy Copenhagen live up to the trust that we place on their youthful shoulders. Day after day, they guarantee the security we all need to do our jobs. Some may have even come to take these “few good men” -- and women -- for granted. But we must not forget that their discipline and valor was forged in countless battles in wars on five continents. From the War of Independence to Operation Iraqi Freedom, the deeds of the Marine Corps have been proclaimed through American history.

Tonight we salute the Marines.

We honor their history and their traditions. All over the globe, they have fought against tyranny and injustice. All over the globe, they have fought for freedom and democracy. Their ideals are America's ideals. Their pride is America's pride.

It is a special honor to mark their achievements in the presence of two of our closest Danish military colleagues. Admiral Jensen is chief of the Danish navy, which so bravely supported the coalition in Iraq. The Danish corvette, Olfert Fischer, and the submarine, Sælen, were an important contribution to the coalition efforts.

Colonel Fleischer led the Danish F-16 squadron that served so proudly in the Afghanistan theater. The missions they flew out of Kyrgyzstan, were crucial to the success of our mission to put an end to the Taliban regime.

To both of these men, and to the men and women under their command, I congratulate you, and thank you for your service in support of our shared values.

To our Marines -- let me say this: You have a history that is the envy of many. You are valued members of the Embassy community. You serve your country with pride and dignity.

On this special day, I am proud to wish you - and Marines everywhere - a very happy birthday.

And now, let me read Secretary Powell's message:

On November 10, 1775, a Corps of Marines was created by a resolution of the Continental Congress. Today we commemorate the 228th anniversary of that historic event.

Since those early days of our great nation, the Department of State and the U.S. Marine Corps have had a unique bond. Marine security forces have escorted diplomatic personnel and treaties or rescued and defended American embassies and consulates around the world.Today, Marine security forces are on duty at 133 U.S. diplomatic missions around the world.

Each of you plays a vital role in keeping the United States engaged across the globe. You not only protect our people, you also protect our facilities and keep our secrets secure.

As our nation and coalition partners pursue the terrorist menace while assisting host nations to achieve a brighter future for their citizens, we are truly grateful to you, the men and women of the Marine Security Guard Program.

You serve on the front lines of freedom selflessly and steadfastly protecting our diplomatic missions with skill, bravery and resolve that reflect highly on each of you and the Corps.

I wish to express on behalf of President Bush, the American people, and the men and women of the State Department, our profound gratitude for your faithful commitment to our country. Happy Birthday Marines!