4 February 2005
The Honorable Walter B.
Jones
United States Representative
422
Dear Representative Jones:
The Fleet Reserve
Association (FRA) strongly advocates the adoption of your proposal to change the
title of Secretary of the Navy to Secretary of the Navy and Marine Corps (H.R.
34). Marines have always been admired for their dedication and loyalty to the
Nation. The continued participation in Operation Iraqi Freedom proves again the
Corps merits recognition as a separate military department with its own
Secretary. However, in view of the Navy-Marine Corps concept and the
extraordinary expense of establishing a separate entity, the most reasonable
solution would be to change the title of Secretary of the Navy to Secretary of
the Navy and Marine Corps.
The Corps has filled a
unique niche in the Nation’s history not duplicated by any of the other
armed services. It provides exceptional and exclusive capabilities in concert
with its sister services, in war and in peace. As the second most senior armed
service, the Marine Corps should receive the honor it truly deserves -
equitable distinction among the military departments in the
Recognizing the Corps as an
equal partner in a new Department of the Navy and Marine Corps gives the
Marines the distinction and esteem they truly deserve. FRA applauds your
commitment to this proposal, and will continue working with you and your staff
on its advancement.
Sincerely,
JOSEPH L. BARNES
National Executive Secretary
JLB:mss:aal