Who formally recognized Scarlet and Gold as the official Marine Corps colors?

General John A. Lejeune formally recognized Scarlet and Gold as the official colors of the Marine Corps. This decision occurred in 1921 during his tenure as Commandant of the Marine Corps. Lejeune aimed to establish a distinctive identity and heritage for the Corps, and he believed that these colors symbolized the valor and sacrifice associated with Marine service. Scarlet represents courage and bloodshed, while gold signifies the richness of the Marine Corps' history and tradition. By officially designating these colors, Lejeune helped to solidify a sense of unity and pride among the Marines, linking their visual identity to their core values and the storied past of the Marine Corps.