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American flag and Marine Corps flag with Eagle Globe and Anchor emblem flying together against clear blue sky.
American flag and Marine Corps flag with Eagle Globe and Anchor emblem flying together against clear blue sky.

Marine Corps Mottos

Semper Fidelis: Faithfulness Beyond Words

TO EACH OTHER, TO OUR COUNTRY, AND TO THE BATTLES AHEAD.

Latin for “Always Faithful,” Semper Fidelis is the official motto of the Marine Corps—an eternal and collective commitment to the success of our battles, the progress of our Nation, and the steadfast loyalty to the fellow Marines we fight alongside. Established in 1883, the Marine Corps motto distinguishes the bond developed and shared between Marines. It goes beyond words that are spoken. It is a credo that every Marine lives.

From the Faithful

Semper Fidelis is used as a greeting, a motivation, and an expression that unites past and present Marines. During war or peacetime, Semper Fidelis speaks volumes. It represents tradition and responsibility—beginning the moment a young man or woman commits to earning the title of United States Marine. See the stories below to witness Semper Fidelis in action.

Iwo Jima Memorial statue showing Marines raising American flag, illuminated against dramatic evening sky.
Iwo Jima Memorial statue showing Marines raising American flag, illuminated against dramatic evening sky.

Uncommon Valor was a Common Virtue

After hard-fought victories in Pacific battles such as Guadalcanal, Tarawa, Saipan, and Peleliu, American Marines set course for Iwo Jima during World War II in February of 1945. What the world would soon find out is that the American spirit would show its full force in the fighting spirit of individual Marines. By remaining faithful to their critical mission, to their country, and to each other during the darkest days, Marines would overcome enormous challenges to emerge victorious at the Battle of Iwo Jima. 

"Every square inch of beachhead was under methodical, deadly fire—like a giant sponge, every hole a separate hell."—Historian Bill D. Ross

Read more about the history of the Corps.

Kyle Carpenter, Medal of Honor recipient Marine, in dress blue uniform with American and Marine Corps flags.
Kyle Carpenter, Medal of Honor recipient Marine, in dress blue uniform with American and Marine Corps flags.

Medal of Honor Recipient

Without hesitation, Lance Corporal Kyle Carpenter shielded another Marine from a grenade blast during Operation Enduring Freedom in 2010. On June 19, 2014, he received the Medal of Honor for his courageous acts and is the military’s youngest living Medal of Honor recipient. Before he completed his time in uniform, LCpl Carpenter earned a promotion to Corporal and is today a living embodiment of the true meaning of Semper Fidelis.

Read more about Marine Corps values.

John Philip Sousa in historic Marine Corps dress uniform with ornate military decorations and ceremonial cap.
John Philip Sousa in historic Marine Corps dress uniform with ornate military decorations and ceremonial cap.

The Official March

Responsible for bringing the United States Marine Band to an elite level of excellence, John Philip Sousa wrote “Semper Fidelis” in 1888—traditionally known as the Marine Corps’ official march. To this day, the embodiment of Semper Fidelis is shown through the music and precision of the Marine Corps Band.

Read more about Marine Corps Bands.

Marines in combat during Battle of Hue with machine guns positioned in tall grass field, Vietnam War.
Marines in combat during Battle of Hue with machine guns positioned in tall grass field, Vietnam War.

An Intense Urban Battle

For 33 days in the winter of 1968, one of the Corps’ most famous urban battles took place—the Battle of Huế. Despite being outnumbered, Marines fought intensely to secure a victory. The Battle of Huế proved that no matter the circumstances, Marines are always prepared to fight with honor, equipped to win, and faithful to one another and our Nation.

Sgt Maj Canley saluting in dress blue uniform with Medal of Honor and service ribbons at military ceremony.
Sgt Maj Canley saluting in dress blue uniform with Medal of Honor and service ribbons at military ceremony.

EXTRAORDINARY HEROISM

SgtMaj (Ret.) John Canley was awarded the Medal of Honor on 17 October 2018 for his exceptional leadership, his extraordinary courage and heroism to carry his wounded Marines to safety, and his determination to fight and win during the Battle of Huế. By refusing to quit on his fellow Marines, SgtMaj Canley brought undeniable meaning to the idea of “Always Faithful.”

Now, find your purpose.

 

Marine in combat gear with rifle standing ready beside armored vehicle during field operations.
Marine in combat gear with rifle standing ready beside armored vehicle during field operations.

The Fabric of Fidelity

Every Marine uniform has a spirit that embodies the words Semper Fidelis. From Dress Blues to combat gear, they symbolize the loyalty of those who earn the title.

Uniforms