“…To the shores of Tripoli…” – The United States Marine Corps Hymn

Presley Neville O’Bannon was born at the beginning of his nation’s struggle for independence in 1776. He joined the fledgling United States Marine Corps as a First Lieutenant in 1801. Assigned to USS Argus, he commanded seven Marines and two sailors, who served with him during the advance on Derna during the First Barbary War. He led them and 4 – 500 dubiously loyal Arab mercenaries in a successful attack on the town. He was the first man to raise the US flag overseas in time of war. The newly installed Arab leader donated a Mameluke sword in recognition of O’Bannon’s success. Consequently, USMC officers are given a similar sword when they graduate.