Marine Corps supporters again pushing to change Navy's name
Published: February 8, 2010
This Thursday Rep. Walter Jones and a host of Marine Corps supporters will again push for legislation to change the Department of the Navy's formal name to the "Department of the Navy and Marine Corps," to better recognize their contributions as an operational force.
It's not a new battle; Jones, R-N.C., has introduced this measure each of the last nine years, only to see it fall short every year. Last year was the closest it has come to passage, with the measure working its way through the House but ultimately getting rejected by the Senate.
Proponents of the change say the new name wouldn't mean new responsibilities or complete independence of the Corps from the Navy; Rather, the change would simply reflect Marines' "equal status" with sailors, and afford an elevated level of respect to the service.
They also complain that KIA letter to families of fallen Marines are sent on "Department of the Navy" letterhead, a move which does not properly recognize their contribution and sacrifice.
Supporters have set up a new web site this year and insist that they've collected more support this year than any time in the past, giving the legislation its best chance ever of passing. But, whether that's enough to overcome roadblocks in the Senate remains to be seen.
Expect the issue to come up again in budget conversations with Navy and Marine Corps service leaders later this month.
