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Transit Center commander speaks at Marine 234th birthday celebration

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Steele C. G. Britton
  • 376th Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs
BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan -- --  The Marine Security Guard Detachment at the U.S. Embassy in Kyrgyzstan held a formal ball, celebrating the Corps' 234th birthday where the Wing Commander of the Transit Center at Manas was the guest speaker.

U.S. Air Force Col. Blaine Holt, 376th Air Expeditionary Wing commander, spoke to a large audience of Marines, Soldiers, Sailors, and Airmen of all ages during a ceremony hosted by the Marine detachment.

"The Marine Corps has always been a symbol of America's strength. They were expeditionary from their very creation. Their first test beyond America's shores was their victory over the Barbary Coast pirates, whose brutal attacks on American shipping in 1805 had to be stopped," the colonel expressed.

Since the Corps' birth in 1775, Marines have distinguished themselves on battlefields in every corner of the globe. Colonel Holt continued, "Some of the most dangerous undertakings in American military history were delivered by the Marines. The sacrifices of those Marines who died, or were injured, are critical to the America's history and its role in the world as a champion of freedom and human rights."

The Marines in Kyrgyzstan are vital in two ways. First, being posted at the Transit Center at Manas where they optimize customs process expediting thousands of Marines redeploying. Second, being the bold support of the security detachment guarding the gates of the U.S. Embassy in Kyrgyzstan and ensuring the security of all its assets.

"The elite group of Marine guards at the U.S. Embassy in Kyrgyzstan are serving in a highly selective special duty billet. They are charged with the security of the U.S. State Department personnel, all members of the interagency serving in Bishkek, as well as their families" Colonel Holt said. "They maintain a high level of readiness which shows in their dress, appearance and professionalism as they defend the US Embassy, Bishkek."

Celebrations of men and women who willingly and selflessly continue to go into harm's way to protect our nation and others were honored with traditions of fellowship and military customs. Colonel Holt expressed his gratitude to the Marine Corps at the conclusion of his speech with birthday wishes.

"Happy Birthday United States Marine Corps - 234 Years of leading America's military excellence."