History and Symbolism of the US Marine Corps flag

In 1775, the US Congress passed a resolution calling for two Marine battalions to assist in a sea battle and provide cover for the landing forces. The first known use of the Grand Union Flag by U.S. Marines came from the battalion led by Captain Samuel Nicholas that carried the flag on the shores of New Providence Island. The motto of “First to Fight” is usually associated with the US Marines Corps.

The History of the Flag

The early 1800s witnessed a practice of carrying a white flag with gold fringe on it showing an eagle and an anchor at the center by the U.S. Marines. Before the Mexican War, the flag had the words “To the Shores of Tripoli” written across the top. When the US Marines landed on the shores of Veracruz in 1914, they carried a flag containing a blue field with a laurel wreath forming a circle around the Marine Corps Emblem. Scarlett ribbons on top and bottom bore the words “US Marine Corps” and “Semper Fidelis.” In the early 1920s, orders were passed stipulating that all National Colors should exclude the yellow fringe and the words “US Marine Corps.”

Official Flag Colors of the US Marine Corps

In 1925, order no. 4 of the Marine Corps designated Scarlet and Gold as the colors that were to be official for the US Marines Corps. In 1936, the Marine Corps board suggested the use of streamers to the staff of organizational colors which is currently in practice. Today, the flag consists of a scarlet field with the US Marine gold emblem at the center. The emblem consists of a Eagle, a Globe, and an Anchor. The Marines consider this gold emblem as a badge of honor and pride.

Marine Corps Emblem

The ‘Marines Hymn’ states that Marines fight for their country on land, air and at sea. The eagle that sits on top of the globe signifies the commitment of US Marines to support and protect the constitution.

The Central part depicts the western hemisphere on the globe where most of the early battles were fought; with the Marine Corps at the front. It also represents their global outreach. The anchor behind the globe shows the corps’ strong ties with the US Navy making it an Amphibious fighting force. The Anchor has no loose end to its rope showing that US Marines Flags are here to stay and this fighting force will not come to an end.

Conclusion

The flag of the United States Marines Corps has evolved, it shows the valor of this special force and how it has fought and won many battles with courage and bravery. The gold and grey emblem at the center of the US Marine Corps flag depicts the strength and vast outreach of this special force. Marines pride themselves as the very best in their field and consider their flag as a badge of honor and pride.