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In the year following the tragic attacks of 11 September, we have deployed more than 80,000 Sailors and Marines outside the United States in the war against terrorism. Thousands more have supported their efforts and provided security at home and abroad. Working together, our Navy and Marine Corps have achieved many impressive accomplishments in Operation Enduring Freedom. Woven through every one of these achievements is one common trait—a rejuvenated spirit of "mutual support." As we celebrate 227 years of the Navy and Marine Corps, I am extremely proud of this spirit.

Admiral Arleigh Burke, national hero and renowned naval leader, preached the importance of this concept to the success of our military. Defined by innovative use of assets, shared knowledge, trust, and communication, mutual support helped Admiral Burke transform the Navy from coal and oil to nuclear power. Serving the longest tenure as Chief of Naval Operations, six years, Admiral Burke advocated the utmost importance of "the spirit" to people, societies, and organizations, both civic and military.

Readily apparent in many aspects of our society following the events of 11 September, I will never forget how Americans reunited in the spirit of supporting each other. The heroes of United Airlines Flight 93, which crashed in Somerset County, Pennsylvania, saved the lives of innocent Americans unknown to them by teaming together to overcome their terrorist assailants. Firemen, policemen, and rescue workers were the first on the scene in New York, Washington, and Pennsylvania, and their contributions are now legendary. The media, broadcasting constantly to the nation and the world, demonstrated that the truth would be told and that justice would come to the terrorists. American flags, bumper stickers, and lapel pins appeared everywhere as the American people displayed their patriotism and resolve.

As our military began to avenge the terrorist attacks with offensive combat operations on 7 October 2001, we saw the Army, Air Force, Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard rely on mutual support to press home the fight. Innovative technology and years of training and development enabled the services to conduct truly joint efforts. Mutual support extended to those in other federal agencies—including, but not limited to, the Central Intelligence Agency, State Department and Federal Bureau of Investigation.

Sustaining the spirit of mutual support is critical to the Department of the Navy. When we create the right environment—or spirit—together we can accomplish anything. Supporting each other is what the Naval Service is about, but it is not something that can be taken for granted. Keeping the spirit alive requires care and nurturing. Working with the Chief of Naval Operations and Commandant of the Marine Corps, we champion this spirit every day.

More than one year later, our forces have destroyed the terrorist camps, disrupted the terrorist networks, and liberated the people of Afghanistan. Still, there are many more battles to fight. For the first time, a small number of people with weapons of mass destruction threaten to wreak untold havoc against our citizens and freedom-loving people around the world. It will take our military, our economic assets, our diplomatic strength, and our free press, working in a spirit of mutual support, to win the war on terrorism.

U.S. NAVY (STEVEN L. COOKE)

Operating in support of the war on terrorism, Sailors and Marines on the USS Belleau Wood (LHA-3) spell out United Flight 93 passenger Todd Beamer's famous quote.

At this juncture, our partnership with the U.S. Naval Institute is as important as any time in our 129-year relationship. Challenging assumptions and conclusions and causing a measured and factual debate in the "Independent Forum for the Sea Services" foster the positive spirit of mutual support and development.

Amid the destruction wrought by the terrorists, a more united nation has emerged. Our Navy and Marine Corps are prepared and focused. Our readiness accounts are fully funded, our equipment is ready, our morale is high, and we are ready to execute the President's orders. Working as one team, one military, one country, one coalition, our spirit will carry us to victory over those who would challenge freedom. Semper Fidelis!

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Secretary England was sworn in as the 72nd Secretary of the Navy on 24 May 2001.