?Just as those who have come before us, the sense of honor, courage, commitment, and patriotism is etched into the souls of all Marines in our ranks today,? said Col. David M. Richtsmeier, commander of 1st Marine Logistics Group (Forward), a 51-year-old native of Waterloo, Iowa. Richtsmeier told the ?Leathernecks? to thank their family and friends for giving the support needed to focus on the mission at hand. Marines also should not forget their family in combat, Richtsmeier said, and always take care of one another. On November, 10, 2006, Marines from Camp Taqaddum stood together to hear Lejeune?s birthday message and celebrate the Marine Corps? 231st year. Richtsmeier urged the audience to remember how Marines have stood together, in every clime and place, for 231 years. Many Marines said they felt a strong sense of pride during the ceremony. Others became nostalgic after hearing General LeJuene?s message. ?It takes you back to square one, when you (first) got that (Eagle, Globe and Anchor) in your hand,? said Sgt. Raymond A. Cezair, 27 from Brooklyn, N.Y., and a cook with Headquarters and Service Company, CLR-15.