HEADQUARTERS, TWENTY-THIRD MARINES,
FOURTH MARINE DIVISION, FLEET MARINE FORCE,
c/o FLEET POST OFFICE, SAN FRANCISCO,
CALIFORNIA

16 October, 1944

MEMORANDUM TO THE OFFICERS AND MEN OF
THE TWENTY-THIRD MARINES

The writer took command of this regiment when it was in swaddling clothes. It has since developed into a men's sized outfit. It is needless to say that I am proud of the accomplishment of the Twenty-Third and of the accomplishments of each and every member of it. I consider it an honor to have commanded the regiment in battle.

In leaving it will be impossible to say farewell to each one individually. I therefore take this opportunity to wish the finest regiment in any service my very best wishes for continued success and outstanding accomplishments. To each member my very best for a speedy victory and a safe return to the homeland.

I know that in turning this regiment over to my successor, Colonel W. W. Wensinger, you will give him the same whole-hearted cooperation which has resulted in this being, in my opinion, the best regiment not only in this division but in the world, and YOU are responsible for it. Again, Good Luck and Best Wishes.

(Signature)
L. R. Jones,
Colonel, U. S. Marine Corps