FMF CORE EXAM QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS (GRADED A+)

1775 - ANSWER-The Marine Corps was created on 10 November 1775 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania at Tun Tavern by a resolution of the Continental Congress, which "raised two battalions of Marines." Captain Samuel Nicholas became the commander of these two battalions and is traditionally considered the first Commandant of the Marine Corps. 1776 - ANSWER-The first Marine landing took place during the Revolutionary War. Marines invaded New Providence Island in the Bahamas and seized guns and supplies. The uniform of the day had a stiff leather stock that was worn around the neck, thus the nickname "Leatherneck". 1805 - ANSWER-Marines stormed the Barbary pirates' stronghold at Burma on the "Shores of Tripoli." Marines raised the "Stars and Stripes" for the first time in the Eastern Hemisphere. 1834 - ANSWER-The Marines were organized under the Department of the Navy (DON). 1847 - ANSWER-During the Mexican War, Marines occupied the "Halls of Montezuma" during the Battle of Chapultepec in Mexico City. The royal palace fell to invading Marines, who were among the first United States troops to enter the capital. Marines also helped take California. 1859 - ANSWER-Under the command of Colonel Robert E. Lee, U.S. Army, Marines stormed the United States arsenal at Harper's Ferry to put down an attempted slave revolt lead by abolitionist John Brown. 1868 - ANSWER-The Marine Corps adopted an emblem that consisted of an eagle, a globe, and an anchor. Brigadier General Jacob Zeilin, 7th Commandant, modified the British (Royal) Marine emblem to depict the Marines as both American and maritime. The globe and anchor signify worldwide service and sea traditions. The spread eagle is a symbol of the Nation itself. 1883 - ANSWER-The official motto of the Marine Corps, "Semper Fidelis," (Latin for "Always Faithful") was adopted. The phrase is more commonly heard as its abbreviation, "Semper Fi". 1900 - ANSWER-In support of foreign policy, Marines from ships on the Asiatic station defended the American Legation in Peking, China during the Boxer Rebellion. The Marines were part of a multinational defense force that protected the Legation Quarter against attack. This small defense force held out against the Boxers until a relief force was able to reach Peking and end the rebellion. 1912 - ANSWER-The marine corps established its aviation unit. Marine major, Alfred A. Cunningham was the first pilot. His first solo flight (1stLt at the time) occurred on 1 Aug 1912