Congressman Jones, You once shared a verse with me:
Greater love hath no man - than to lay down his life for his friends.
That spirit of sacrifice defines the soldier and Marine. And it defines you sir. You know in your heart and your soul what is right and you are willing to fight for it. Even if it is at great risk to you and your career.
As my family and I faced our darkest hours you fought for us, and in doing so…You fought for every man and woman in the uniform, past present and future - not because of the opportunity to challenge the military, but for the opportunity to protect it from itself.
Day and night you appealed to any that would listen. You were tireless in your defense of me, and for that I will be eternally grateful.
My family and I want to thank you for your courage and your leadership.
First, I present to you my innocence, known to you and many many others from the outset, but proven finally by our justice system after a yearlong investigation and prosecution.
Congressman Jones, You weren’t just brave to defend me. You were RIGHT.
And finally, from one warrior to another, I present to you my most cherished possession: my sword. My love of corps and country will never be broken or diminished, but now it is my love of family that I must honor most with my decision to resign.
I have taken up arms for my country and my corps in two wars and it has been my privilege to serve beside real heroes- some of whom are here today.
Even as I step aside it is my greatest hope that young men and women continue to follow in the footsteps of those who have gone before… To push themselves…To rise to the challenge of becoming Marines. Our country needs you and we will always be grateful to you.
The Marine Officer’s sword represents the highest ideals of military excellence and professionally, one of my greatest achievements.
Honor, courage and commitment are principles by which we Marines LIVE AND DIE.
You, Congressman Jones, through your actions, have demonstrated that you live by those principles as well.
And I, for one am grateful that you do.
Thank you Sir, may god bless you and your family and may God Bless America.
