CGRM Lt Gen Robert Magowan issues statement on Afghanistan | Royal Marines

Commandant General Royal Marines, Lieutenant General Robert Magowan, has issued the following statement about Afghanistan.
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[@robertdunlap4975]

Thank you so very much Royal Marine Commandos, from USA.

[@rebsarge]

Well said, General. As an American Marine veteran of Vietnam, this week has been a stunning onslaught of de'ja vu. My thanks go to all y'all who served, of whatever branch. As your Commandant said, you served well and did your duty magnificently, and no matter what follows, DON'T YOU *EVER* let the sonsofbitches tell you it didn't matter or that it was wasted! You gave a generation of Afghan children an example of honor and decency that may well be in short supply going forward. As for the enemy, he didn't come out of his holes until you left. That should tell you all you need to know about what *HE* thinks of you! I give you the greatest salute I can: Semper Fidelis.

[@Pretermit_Sound]

Amen. Exactly. Thank you. Coming from a military family, it’s been really frustrating hearing some people saying that because of the chaotic situation that has ensued in Afghanistan in the wake of our exit, that all of a sudden our troop’s sacrifices over there mean nothing somehow. What a sh*t attitude to have. The coalition forces did the best they could in the situation they were presented with. 🎗✌🏻🇺🇸

[@rebsarge]

@@Pretermit_Sound Thanks. Exactly My dad, a WWII Marine taught me that doing the right thing and doing it superbly is never wasted. Godspeed to you and yours.

[@Pretermit_Sound]

@@rebsarge To you as well. Thanks 🙏🏼

[@oldbootneck]

Very well said fella

[@rebsarge]

@Geoff@678 Of course! Some of them may even be true! But I'd rather not clutter this fine thread. I hope you won't think me stand-offish. I was not a combat Marine, and being humbled in the presence of such, I just don't like to go blathering on about my own stuff. Make sense?

[@isildurelendurion1822]

General as a US veteran, thank you for your support and for your service to the uk my family comes from.

[@tonycarey9731]

It was my luck and privilege to work with the Royal Marines on a few draughts. Without a doubt they are the MOST professional people I got to work with and I am grateful to have done so.

[@JammyDodger45]

Drafts you Jack twat. 😘

[@colincrispin7239]

I’m very proud to say that my dad served in the Royal Marines in WW2, he was in 45 Commando. Without doubt he suffered after the war unfortunately back then you never spoke about it you just “pulled yourself together”. I’ve never served in the forces I’ve never seen the horrors of war so I can only imagine what goes on in someone’s mind that has. All I can say is if you just think you need help get it immediately. Thanks to all those who served and to those who continue to serve, for obvious reasons especially the Royal Marines.

[@wildlifeathome]

You are to be thanked as well, I'm sure that your father is proud to have you and surely you have played a role in easing at least a little of his suffering.

[@zaynevanday142]

This is what a Fkn Leader looks like ! Good Officers are worth their weight in gold !

[@rebsarge]

We'll trade you any ten of ours for Gen. McGowan. Maybe 20 if you'll throw in fish and chips.

[@jackdelaney6633]

Full respect to the Royals and all who served

[@sharkwolf7788]

Good speech. And great sign off. Well done Royal

[@empire-classfirenationbatt2691]

Respect to the Royal Marines from South Africa! I salute you all.

[@Catlovers52]

Well said and thank you Royal Marines for all you do. A hello from Ontario Canada.

[@lighteningrod36]

Well said general, from an Aussie vet, you lead one of the finest fighting forces on the planet. I’d have no fear standing beside you. Take care of your troops in the aftermath of this, they need your leadership,compassion and care

[@Jut_tc]

Bless all the royal marines both dead and alive.

[@markhicks4284]

Up most respect i served with you in 2008 & 2011 3 Bgd i was 1 Rifles . Well done guy's 🇬🇧👍👍👍👍

[@wildlifeathome]

As an American citizen, I thank you. Your time and sacrifices will always be appreciated.

[@markhicks4284]

@@wildlifeathome Hi good afternoon thank you for your message 🇬🇧👍👍👍

[@wildlifeathome]

@@markhicks4284 You are most welcome. Have a wonderful day.

[@dallasyap3064]

Thank you Royal Marines for your service to the afghan people, for giving the people there, especially females a chance to do what they love and feel what's it is like to be free. Your service won't be forgotten.

[@cg2bx264]

Thank you Sir, much appreciated from a Veteran.

[@Germanicus-]

God bless our brothers Royal Marine Commandos 🙏 United States Marine Corps 🇬🇧🇺🇲

[@marlisschmitz]

Ihr seit wunderbare Menschen.. Gott Schütze euch.. Alle. 🇩🇪🇺🇸🇬🇧

[@wildlifeathome]

Thank you for your time and sacrifices, from an American civilian.

[@mrt49t67]

Bless those that died bless those injured and those that survive bless the families and bless all those that have any association with the corps Royal Marines ever ready for anything in front of them Bless you all

[@hummingbirdee9389]

May GOD continue to bless you all. ✝️🙏🏻♥️🇬🇧

[@bernadetteminshall9641]

Thank you for your bravery, loyalty and message of hope, God bless!

[@elnesti1890]

God bless Royal Marines and 🇬🇧 and all those who gave their lives 🙏 for liberty all veterans may almighty God bring peace into your hearts 💕.

[@alansimpson596]

I served as an operational police officer throughout the Northern Ireland Troubles (1969-1998) and greatly appreciate the support of the military. I realise that marines don't like to called soldiers but I have nothing but thanks to offer marines and soldiers for the protection they afforded us during many difficult days.

[@alansimpson596]

@Geoff@678 I've had two books published about my experiences but they are now out of print. I'm afraid any stories I have, and there are many. would be too lengthy by this means.

[@dwightddddd]

Thank you Sir, and thank you to all Royal Marines and all of the corp. R.I.P to all marine commandos that did not come home.🙏🇬🇧

[@UKUK-rv4xn]

So proud of our armed forces thank you for your service and thank you to all our allies serving along side them

[@istvanszilagyi9384]

God bless all Royal Marines and everyone who supported them, in the field, and outside it.

[@iVETAnsolini]

God bless our brothers and arms across the pond in GB!!!! Thank you brave souls for all the blood, sweat and tears that have shed in our shared fight against Islamic extremism!!

[@Morhan1000S]

Very basadly. In Afganistan have died not only USA and GB soldiers. During IIWW for GB died not only USA and GB soldiers. For example pilots like Pols, Czechs and so on.

[@rich8305]

Correct,these comments made from America are complementing the British forces, not disrespecting the other combined nations-Poland, France, Denmark and all others deserve and have respect

[@germcp]

Well said Sir, Respect to all the Royal Marine Family

[@digitalvipnews]

Thank you for your service with US Marines. You made a huge difference in your strategic plans during All of Afghanistan mission. My uncle was a Recruiter for US Marines from heaven he is proud of each of you. WELL done faithful servant. God Bless each of you. Enjoy your time off now.

[@valandilelfstone]

God Bless our Royal Marines the best in the world, stand with them in all their duties, protect and guide them strengthen and uphold them, be their light in the darkness their shield in danger their strength in times of conflict, never forsake them guard and watch over their families to. Look after and comfort to the veterans and take the fallen into your loving care. Amen

[@Peskyjooba]

Thank you and god bless these brave troopers

[@davidwhitehouse2162]

A very heartfelt tribute. My only hope is that you are never used and your experience ignored and squandered by politicians not fit to stand in your shadow.

[@VimyScout]

God Bless the Royal's and all who served.

[@hoppo05]

Very well said sir. Great respect to all Royal Marines past and present.

[@exrfn]

"AMEN"...Said with True Spirit....👏👏👏👏👏

[@rich8305]

The British and American military are outstanding representatives of our great nations, fighting for democracy and decency

[@treadheadpete4770]

I work in the Veterans Care Program of a hospital in Canada. One of the men in the program is a Royal Marine who served aboard HMS Valiant during WWII. Sept 2nd was his 101st birthday. He is a great man, requiring very little help from the nursing staff. I am glad to see that the Royal Marines are as strong and capable as ever.

[@julioaranton461]

Thank you Sir & Wonderful Nation for your Loyalty in War & Peace thru Two World Wars & in between.!

[@lukzy.4251]

Respect to serving or veteran, hoping to join this corps as soon as i hit 18.

[@simonnormand2813]

As they like to say, ‘it’s not for everyone.’ Good luck with your selection and training. Remember, once a marine, always a marine

[@AD-hy2se]

You know you can join before 18 but if you’re getting your A levels you can join as an officer which is the way to go.

[@lukzy.4251]

@@AD-hy2se yeah already talked to my mum and dad about the marines im 14 btw my dads family is mostly irish and always hated the British empire said he wont do anything military related for me said once im 18 its my life, officer im still looking at if i get decent exams im from scotland btw i dont really know what A levels are.

[@TheBigG633]

I'm joining up once I finish college, one year from now.

[@thomasov2004]

@@lukzy.4251 Goodluck man!

[@johnbaxter8569]

Correctly said with such a heavy heart... ! It is such a shame that politicians have got in the way of doing what is right.... From an ex soldier what served in the middle east...

[@lyndaavery6574]

Strength to you all!!!

[@OnochieAfigbo]

Straight-forward message. No pandering. No politics. 👍

[@fordpopular8792]

Thank you all for doing your duty in a selfless manner............Per Mare..Per Terram also Per Astra !

[@garyteeley8351]

Great speech......ready to go again!! Get our boyz back in there and this time allow them to fight battles with the proper tools, support and no red tape. Trust me, the only language these lot understand is to be completely wiped out. Unleash the British Marines ....awesome respect....

[@wheresfekkesh7375]

Per mare per terram 🇬🇧 God bless the Royal Marines God Save The Queen

[@udohirschmnn1479]

Thank you Sir for your service and the sacrifice of all countries troops who went there and try, what has never been reached before. Maybe one has to be a politician to not feel a certain amount of bitterness how „easily“ the achievements have been given away. Very hard to understand for a Former grenadier. I wish you luck and fortune for the Future, wherever this may be.

[@jlbdgb]

Respect to the warrior's 👊

[@bobbonner1314]

Total Respect!

[@elabartosiewicz2360]

"may God protect you, your family and your friends, you are there as one family, one for all, all for one ♥ ️💙 ♥ ️🙏🙏🙏🇵🇱🦅🌹

[@johndastoli8572]

Well said sir! I am a US Marine, and still appreciate your words and thoughts. It is easy to say that all of our efforts and loss were a waste of time. But, history is still being written. Thank you for reminding all of us of that reality. Semper Fidelis, Major John Dastoli

[@johndonaldson7930]

Well said Sir! I salute you! My only complaint,petty as it may be, I HATE the new shoulder flash!

[@paulharding1621]

Thank you all for your service. Always remembered.

[@greatscott8468]

The Royal Marines deserves better leadership better governance and should turn their back on this government!! Ex 42 Cdo

[@jameswatsonatheistgamer]

They should run the defence show. Not the polititians

[@cecilwilson5442]

Brilliant force and make British people proud we should all help our veterans,, from Northern Ireland greatly appreciated thank you for the service and the freedom we have,,

[@darrenknight8327]

Much respect God bless you all I need a padre after hearing this

[@nigelbanyard5980]

Respect

[@boneyneil]

Best speach I've heard from any Commanding Officer for a long long time,amen to every word!

[@kelechindubuisi60]

Well said sir. Rip to those that lost their life in the course of their service.

[@wildlifeathome]

As an American citizen, I would like to thank you and your countries service members and families for their sacrifices and time. Thank you

[@johngraves8594]

Good on you mates from down under

[@selfpropelled8916]

What dark times this is. To everyone out there, you can not count on the US for the seeable future. My country America is no longer the super power that will protect our friends and help those in need. You are all on your own now. Truly dark times we are all in with no end in sight.

[@lawrencerogers576]

And the ex-Royal Marine, Paul Farthing, who is today setting an example to us all.

[@PO53286G]

R.I.P Sgt Andy Houltram

[@dwightddddd]

🙏❤️🇬🇧

[@PJ-iy4ph]

Well presented. Total respect.

[@steveinla8963]

Outstanding message general. Thank you. We so need leaders like you in this dark hour. Our "leaders" here in the states are not doing a good job of anything. R, Steve

[@jameswatsonatheistgamer]

Political entities are idiots. GB should be run by the Queen and anything defence related. I.E. equipment and war's should be under the jurisdiction/purview of the 3 branches, of our armed forces. The top brass in the army, navy and airforce. Not the polititians.

[@tomcat7843]

Here is a man that takes care of his soldiers. He is one of the 1% of the top people on the planet.

[@giancarlogarlaschi4388]

Imagine This Men would be running your Country, instead of your silly politicians ! First Lieutenant (R) Air Force of Chile. Qatar Airways Commander ( R ).

[@jameswatsonatheistgamer]

The military/top brass of each force. Army. Navy. Airforce should be in charge of defence. The politicians are idiots.

[@simonjones63]

Bravo Zulu Sir 👏👏👏👏👏👏

[@byornepearson165]

I can't emphasize how much I want to be a part of such a dedicated corps, I'm a Maltese citizen who wishes to apply with the royal marines commandos but due to poor timing of application, covid regulations and complications to even simply moving to the uk it makes it harder. But just like those lads I will do my most to pull through. And may those who gave their lives to those next to them rest peacefully. For they are who I look up to the most. Well said sir ..

[@geoffpoole483]

Hello, use that delay to your advantage by getting even better prepared for when you join. I wish you every success with your application.

[@Mungo658]

God bless

[@paranoidmarty]

My Nephew is a Royal Marine. Basement Biden and Boris no Balls Johnston have let our brave Service Men and Women down! 🇬🇧

[@leahm5882]

And have let so many of the bad ones in our countries. I think we are all in for a shit storm now. A good few people have been saying civil war is coming for a while now and now I have seen a few saying this is now the start of it. Hope your nephew stays safe and so do you xx

[@marknicholson2281]

Biden and Boris had nothing to do with it. The deal was done by Trump, he released the Taliban leader and 5000 fighters from prison. He didn’t invite coalition governments or even the Afghan government to the Dona talks. He just gave away the country, all he asked for was that the Taliban didn’t attack U S forces as they withdrew. He agreed to give up five US bases by August 2020 but actually gave up ten, he sped up the withdrawal to help him in the election.. he had to be persuaded out of pulling everyone out in December when he lost that election. He agreed for all US troops to be out in May 21. By the time Biden got in there were less than 9000 US troops still in Afghanistan, the American voters were 70% against staying. He got a delay to August 31st to give more time for an orderly withdrawal. Without USA involvement there was no realistic chance of the other coalition forces staying and Boris had no choice but to withdraw UK forces. MSM have been very dishonest about all this, bringing on retired generals to say Biden should have stayed. What they don’t tell you is all those generals now work for defence contractors who have just seen their profits slump.

[@mikeburton7662]

@@marknicholson2281 Nailed it.👍

[@truthbtold2910]

Brother Vet w U Sir. Much Love from US 🇺🇸

[@samuelpayne3822]

Well said

[@brandonthehowgate1266]

True heroes

[@ianedwards7749]

Total respect from SA Romeo Mike

[@goldencheese7247]

💔Angels in disguise. The lot of them. Thank YOU. ❤️💖

[@hammerh5131]

THANK YOU

[@didgerb72]

A Bootneck General speaking to his troops (Corp family). Total respect from a disabled British Army Veteran. Was attached to 3rd Commando Brigade RM in the RCT Maritime. All Arms wasn't compulsory. I served 3 different times in the British Army. As a Jnr Ldr RA in 88. As a TA Royal Sigs in 02. And as a Regular in RCT Maritime in 90. Served 5 yrs in total (3 yrs in Maritime, so never got round to doing All Arms Commando, as always at sea. Or timing off). I look back at my time, with great pride. I do regret not getting a green lid All Arms beret, but sh*t happens. I have nothing but huge respect for the bootnecks. Top bunch of loons. Of course I never played any pranks on the RFA ships. Except standing outside the OODs cabin, with a cheque book. Knowing they doing rounds. Then newly trained guys would join the que. We'd then say save my place, and be back soon. Knowing OOD had finished rounds. Then hearing the OOD shouting at the que of guys to feckoff from his office/cabin, as he's not a bank lol. Then we'd keep a low profile for a day or two lol. All harmless Inter unit/branch banter. The militarys banter is a very strong coping mechanism I think. Helps me during tough times. Total respect Sir.

[@juliespencer1164]

As a UK citizen, I am proud of what our Military has achieved may God bless and keep you all safe.

[@sgwilsonmd]

Semper Fi, Brother. We win battles and serve at the behest of a civilian authority. That service allows us to stand above. Always.

[@Sam-ch9mn]

Thank you. In the Royal Marines we wear both our brotherhood and elite status lightly. It speaks for itself and needs no amplification.

[@eillenhernandez3016]

Thank you.

[@YesMan_Lucky38]

The recent events in Afghanistan can only be described as tragic. It may appear that the last 20 years were all for nought, but his just is not the case. Because of the efforts of the British Military, the people of Helmand were able to live free lives. Girls were able to go to school, electricity was provided to homes and stability was brought to the region. Just because this is not the case now it does not mean the campaign was a failure. The children of Afghanistan will remember you and one day they will take back their country. They will fight with fire in their bellies, inspired by the soldiers that once patrolled through their villages and fought like fearless lions to bring liberty to the oppressed. And those very same soldiers would also show compassion. They will remember the times you stopped, the times you took a break to interact, play football and other games, give sweets, pens and clean drinking water. They will remember your kindness. The cowardice of the ANA and corruption within the Afghan government is not the fault of the Royal Marines or British Army. The nation is so damn proud of you all.

[@seven9399]

God bless you all

[@stevethomas5849]

Eloquently conveyed

[@georgerobert4709]

What he said !!

[@markknivila8383]

I wish our American generals talked like this!

[@mvicmunt]

RESPECT !

[@lesleyriseam1282]

The Forces of all of the Nato allies did an extraordinary job . They did this in circumstances that most of us can barely imagine . They face mortaliy.and take the lives of others when they have no choice but to do so . They show professionalism that fills me with Pride . Now we Civillians must honour our Commitment to our Veterans.

[@sanalzam1]

Thank you for your Service. I'm not British, but I understand Sacrifice, Honor, and Service to God and Country. And thank you for your Bravery and Professionalism.

[@nickgood8166]

Perfectly pitched. Well done sir!

[@gunner678]

Mission completed, time to go home. The job is done. It's now up to others to continue a different course. We cannot be the policemen of the world anymore. It does not diminish the job that has been done by all British service personnel, in all theatres of operations past and present (and yet to come).

[@ralphwatt8752]

The Best

[@dmpearce5204]

Well said Sir. 🙏

[@salumsalum1775]

94 Troops we will never forget special Tom first operation he was shot and die R. I. P all but 94 TRP was special

[@patdennison4508]

Hoofing!

[@brandondempster2435]

Well said respect to all of you can't wait to apply in the rmc in a few years. What is the charity for all forces?

[@tabyomper4745]

The military always do their duty to Queen And Country. You join not just for a job but because deep down whether you know it or not its calling you.To make yourself a better person,to belong or like me you were raised to love all that matters in the Union Flag. That flag goes back to Roman times when the different tribes,Kingdoms and villages combined together in Britain to fight the Romans.Thats when the Britons first fought together to fight the common enemy. We have our differences but do not fuck with us.As Putin said years ago the only people he fears fighting are the Israelis,United States and the Britons as they are warrior people.

[@justinbieberlake5635]

I think you might need to take a look at the history of the Union Flag again there mate

[@tabyomper4745]

@@justinbieberlake5635 Not the flag itself but the Union came together in Roman times and stopped fighting each other to beat the common enemy. That is when we started fighting as one entity 😉

[@justinbieberlake5635]

@@tabyomper4745 ok, I see where your coming from now 👍

[@paulchandler9646]

Then after the romans were gone the Saxons came along then the Vikings and finally the Normans and so what.I doubt if Putin said that why would he.

[@tabyomper4745]

@@paulchandler9646 Why are you one of his trolls

[@GALWAYSPANIARD]

Thanks from the North Country, New York State, USA, and formerly with USMC and later 10th Mountain Division, US Army.

[@peaceseeker3485]

Well said Sir. I salute u

[@magsbulldog]

Ready to go again? I hope he meant generally speaking and not to a place where they are not welcome. Shame on the government. Great message about reaching out. I read that the average time a soldier seeks help is 13 years after leaving service. Don’t wait. Stay frosty ⚓️🗡

[@charliewelshans3301]

Outstanding great job Marines

[@danielgreen3715]

Its the Politicians who carry the Blame for Afghanistan Not the Soldiers who put themselves in harm's way and attempted the virtually impossible we all owe them our thanks

[@davidtapp3950]

Vale Royal Marines!