MARINE CORPS AIR STATION MIRAMAR, Calif. -- Brig. Gen. Carl B. Jensen, commanding general, Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, was the first Marine to buy the new Marine Corps stamps at the air station's post office Nov. 10.

On the Marine Corps' 230th birthday, the United States Postal Service released the "Distinguished Marines" stamp series, which includes four different postage stamps featuring some of the most renowned and influential figures in Corps history.

"The USPS doesn't put just anyone on a stamp," said Gunnery Sgt. Mack D. Reed, postal chief, MCAS Miramar. "These Marines deserve to be recognized for the sacrifices they made for our country."

Each stamp, sold at 37 cents, features one of four giants of the Corps.

Lt. Gen. John A. Lejeune, who served more than 40 years in the service, is commonly referred to as "the greatest leatherneck of all time" and was the 13th commandant of the Marine Corps.

Gunnery Sgt. John Basilone, the only enlisted Marine in World War II to receive the Purple Heart, Navy Cross and the Medal of Honor, fought gallantly with the 1st Marine Division on Guadalcanal.

While holding the line, he repaired and personally manned a machine gun nest after it was put out of action by advancing enemy forces. He later died during the invasion of Iwo Jima.

Lt. Gen. Lewis B. "Chesty" Puller is the only Marine to be awarded the Navy Cross five times. He was involved in World War II, Korea and various operations across the globe.

Sgt. Maj. Daniel Daly is one of only two Marines awarded the Medal of Honor twice. He received his first award during the Boxer Rebellion in 1900, when he single-handedly defended his position from advancing enemy forces while his commander left to get reinforcements.

He was awarded his second Medal of Honor when he stood out as the most conspicuous figure during a battle against an outnumbering enemy force in Haiti.

The timeless quote, "Come on you sons of bitches! Do you want to live forever?" is also attributed to Daly during the battle of Belleau Wood in June 1918.

Some Marines agreed that it was about time the Marine Corps and its heroes were honored for their sacrifices and contributions to the country.

"America wouldn't have a history without the Marine Corps," said Lance Cpl. John J. Harris, ordnance technician, Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 352, Marine Aircraft Group 11, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing.

With its tradition of being first to fight, the Marine Corps stands out among other branches of the military.

"Every military service is good," said Jensen. "But there is no service that has earned the trust and respect like the Marine Corps. Great patriots paid for that trust and respect with their lives."