What does the red piping on the enlisted dress blues commemorate?

The red piping on the enlisted dress blues commemorates the historical connection to the Marine Corps' heritage, specifically referencing the uniforms worn by the Continental Marines during the Revolutionary War. The tradition can be traced back to the time of John Paul Jones, who was a prominent figure in naval history and is often credited with establishing important naval doctrines. The red coats worn by Marines during this period were distinct and symbolic of their unique role as both sailors and soldiers. This aspect of the uniform design serves not only as a nod to the branch’s storied past but also as a representation of pride and honor that all Marines share in their service. The other options, while related to aspects of Marine Corps history and values, do not specifically address the significance of the red piping on the dress blues uniform itself.