The city of New Orleans dedicated the first United States monument of a woman in service uniform: “Molly Marine” on 10Nov, 1943. A local recruiter commissioned the statue to help recruit women during World War II. For female Marines around the world, Molly has come to represent the countless significant contributions women have made to the Corps. She proudly stands for endurance, the book she holds records our history, the binoculars allow her to see into the future and she looks up steadfast facing all that comes her way. Molly has become a symbol of Esprit de Corps for all women Marines. Before graduation from boot camp, the recruits are asked to name one fellow recruit within their platoon who best exemplifies being a Marine. Here, we celebrate our newest sisters.
Molly Marine
PFC Tori C. Best
N Co, Plt 4009
12 March 2014
A Molly Marine is not much different than every other Marine. A Molly Marine embodies the ideals of honor, courage, and commitment in her every action hoping to provide an example for those around her. She is not hindered by challenges; rather she sees them as a way to improve herself. A Molly Marine pushes past adversity always seeking self-improvement not for her benefit alone but for her brothers and sisters as well, because without them she is nothing.
A Molly Marine never hesitates at a task given. Facing each obstacle with a positive attitude, she hopes to inspire confidence in those around her. A Molly Marine leads by example, always giving guidance to those in need. What truly sets the Molly Marine apart is not how she acts when the spotlight is turned on, but her actions when no one is watching. Even when all backs are turned she continues to do the right thing. A Molly Marine understands life’s hardships and is aware of those around her who are facing them. She supports and shares her happiness to those in need. Her peers and her country come before herself; any task asked of her will be completed.
There are many characteristics of a Molly Marine, but helping those around her is the most important. In the last three months we have transformed from civilians to recruits, and Marines. It isn’t the strength of one, but the strength of each individual combined that has gotten us this far. When I think of what makes a Molly Marine I think about the actions of my sisters throughout our time together. Together we pushed past hardship, together we overcame, and together we are all Molly Marines.
