Marines

Speeches and Transcripts

Flag of the Commandant of the Marine Corps

Commandant of the Marine Corps

Headquarters Marine Corps

Statement of General Eric M. Smith Commandant of the Marine Corps on the Posture of the United States Marine Corps before Congressional Defense Committees

Chair, Ranking Member, and distinguished members of the Committee, thank you for the opportunity to

2026 Modern Day Marine Keynote Address

This year, our gathering carries a profound historical weight. As we stand on the cusp of America's 250th anniversary, it is a natural time for reflection.

2026 Modern Day Marine Congressional Breakfast

The Marine Corps shares a special relationship with the dedicated public servants in Congress. One rooted in mutual trust, accountability and a shared commitment to the defense of our Nation.

Marine Corps Association Ground Awards Dinner

Let me start with the infantry. Our Corps has always drawn its soul from the infantry. We say “every Marine a rifleman” for a reason. It's not a recruiting slogan. It’s a truth baked into our bones.

Statement of General Eric M. Smith Commandant of the Marine Corps on the posture of the United States Marine Corps before Congressional Defense Committees

Chair, Ranking Member, and distinguished members of the Committee, thank you for the opportunity to

Modern Day Marine Keynote Address

We’re modernizing with a clear purpose: to keep Marines lethal, survivable, and one step ahead of the enemy.

Modern Day Marine Congressional Breakfast Keynote Address

The Marine Corps has long shared a close and trusted partnership with Congress—one built on shared commitment to the defense of our Nation and a mutual understanding of the responsibility we carry together.

Marine Corps Heritage Foundation 250th Anniversary Gala

Good evening, ladies and gentlemen.Trish and I are honored to be here with you tonight for this

80th Reunion of Honor Ceremony at Iwo To

Eighty years ago, this island was a crucible of war. Approximately 25,000 U.S. Servicemembers were killed or wounded and more than 18,000 Japanese soldiers perished in only 36 days. The men who fought here—American and Japanese—endured unimaginable hardship and faced impossible odds, yet neither faltered.

Defense Writers Group Discussion

The 39th Commandant of the Marine Corps, Gen. Eric M. Smith, talks with journalists from the Defense Writers Group at the Fairmount Washington Hotel in Washington D.C. on Jan. 15, 2024. General Smith answered questions corresponding to the state of the Marine Corps and how the branch will adapt to an evolving battlefield.

Commandant of the Marine Corps