CHUCK NORRIS NAMED AN HONORARY MARINE

BY THE U.S. MARINE CORPS

"During my November, 2006 USO 'hand shake' tour of Iraq, the Marine Corps, which was then celebrating its 231th anniversary, offered to be my military sponsor.  I was both pleased and grateful for the offer.

As a former Airman in the U.S. Air Force, the military has always been very close to me.  It turned my life around.  It helped me get on the right path.  This tour was an opportunity for me to meet many of the brave young men and women who now serve our country and also get to know some of the skilled and dedicated warriors who lead them.  Included in the latter category are Marine Corps Brig. Gen Robert B. Neller, Maj. Gen. Richard C. Zilmer, and General Robert Magnus, with whom I had the privilege of traveling with to Iraq and who has since then become a good friend.

When I was asked to come to Washington, D.C. to meet and have dinner with Marine Corps Commandant, General James T. Conway, that was honor enough.  When he informed me I had been named an honorary member of the Maine Corps, I was speechless.

It is a great honor and I am humbled by it.

For all of those who thought of me for this recognition, I thank you.  To all of our service men and women, I salute you.  I support you, and I am so proud to now, in a small way, be one of you.

God bless you all."

Chuck Norris