Today is the United States First Day Release of the four .37-cent Commemorative Stamps “Distinguished Marines”. The First-Day-of-Issue ceremony for these stamps is scheduled to be held at the Marine Barracks in Washington D.C.. Families of the Marines who are pictured on the stamps have been invited. In addition to the primary ceremony at MB, Washington, there also will be ceremonies on Monday, Nov. 14, at Camp Pendleton, Calif., and Camp Lejeune, N.C.

Featured in this stamp issue are John Basilone, Daniel J. Daly, John A. Lejeune and Lewis B. Puller. These four Marines are legendary in the Corp for their bravery and distinction of service. For more information on the “bravest of the brave”, click here.

Established by the Continental Congress on November 10, 1775, the United States Marine Corps has become known to many as the “warrior elite” of America’s great military. Those who serve do so with honor, courage and commitment. Choosing these four men must have been a grueling task since every Marine, as well as all service men and women from all of our military branches, are deserving of great recognition for their service.

As of April 2005 a total of 3,455 Medals of Honor have been given. This dates as far back as the Civil War, in which 1,520 were awarded.