[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 66 (Wednesday, May 5, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E755]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




REDESIGNATING THE DEPARTMENT OF THE NAVY AS THE DEPARTMENT OF THE NAVY 
                            AND MARINE CORPS

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                          HON. BETTY McCOLLUM

                              of minnesota

                    in the house of representatives

                          Tuesday, May 4, 2010

  Ms. McCOLLUM. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 24, 
the ``Marine Corps Identity'' bill. This bipartisan legislation would 
change the name of the Department of the Navy to the Department of the 
Navy and Marine Corps.
  For over 200 years, the Marine Corps has fought side by side with the 
Navy. Yet, despite having served in every armed conflict in America's 
history, the Marines are not recognized at the department level. When 
the parents of fallen Marines receive a letter of condolence from their 
country, the Marine Corps name does not even appear on the official 
letterhead. For too long, recognition of the United States Marine Corps 
has failed to match the remarkable sacrifice of its men and women.
  By adding just three symbolic words, H.R. 24 will finally honor the 
Marine Corps as a coequal branch of America's Armed Forces. For 
veterans in Minnesota and across the United States, and for our Marines 
currently serving overseas, I am proud to co-sponsor and vote to pass 
this important and overdue legislation.

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