Marine Air Group detachment celebrates Corps' 235 years of service Published Nov. 17, 2010 By Stephen K. Robinson 95th Air Base Wing Public Affairs EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- Marines past and present joined Air Force base leadership and a crowd of about 150 people to celebrate the 235th birthday of the U.S. Marine Corps Nov. 10 at Club Muroc. During his remarks, Lt. Col. Darrell W. Platz, Commanding Officer, Marine Air Group 41, Detachment Alpha said, "I pay special tribute today to those who have gone before us and those who continue to support us. "They have laid the foundation and made the sacrifice for those of us who wear the uniform today. They established a legacy of honor, courage and commitment. And to those who wear the uniform today, now it is our turn to ensure we carry on this legacy with excellence, faithfulness and valor." Mrs. Susan L. Platz, wife to Lieutenant Colonel Platz said, "Today's birthday celebration gave our children the opportunity to see daddy in action. It demonstrates and reinforces the support he has from home." Sgt. Maj. Charles L. Dillree, Sergeant Major of MAG 41, Det., Alpha said, "No matter where we are or what we're doing, wherever there are two Marines together we'll wish each other a happy birthday. It's just who we are and what we do. And anyone who understands the Marine Corps will see its customs and courtesies that bind us together. It's what keeps us going generation after generation after generation, and that sets us apart from our sister services and most services around the world." General James F. Amos, Commandant of the Marine Corps, and Sgt. Maj. Carlton W. Kent, Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps, sent a video message for the ceremony entitled 'Every Clime and Place,' which is taken from the second verse of the Marine's Hymn and honors Korean War-era Marines. The program included the Marine Corps March on the Colors, the national anthem and posting the colors, birthday wishes from various government leaders, as well as a traditional cake-cutting ceremony.