USMC After the Civil War to 1900-- Part 1: "Marine Corps Hymn" and Emblem

From Wikipedia.

After the Civil War, the USMC declined in strength and there came to be some confusion as to its mission.

The Navy's transition from sail to steam even brought forth the question of whether the Marines were even needed on ships.

The Marines continued to intervene and protect American interests overseas.  In the years after the Civil War until 1900, the Marine Corps was involved in 28 different interventions.

Under Commandant Jacob Zeilin, Marine customs and traditions took shape and the Marine Corps emblem was adopted 19 November 1868.  The "Marine Corps Hymn" was first heard around this time and in 1883, the current motto "Semper Fidelis" (Always Faithful) was adopted.

--Old B-Runner