What happened in 1868 concerning the Marine Corps emblem?

In 1868, the Marine Corps emblem was officially adopted under the authority of General Jacob Zeilin, who was the 7th Commandant of the Marine Corps at that time. This emblem was designed to signify the Marine Corps' identity and traditions, incorporating elements such as the eagle, globe, and anchor. This symbolism reflects the Corps' mission of being a naval force-in-readiness, capable of operating in diverse environments.

The significance of this decision lies in the fact that it established a lasting symbol that would represent the Marine Corps for generations to come. General Zeilin's vision for the emblem was rooted deeply in the Marine Corps' heritage and its connection with naval service, which set the stage for future iterations while maintaining that historical significance.

The other aspects mentioned, such as changing to a new design, first use in combat, or inspiration from another military branch, do not precisely encapsulate the pivotal event of adoption in 1868, which is why they do not reflect what actually occurred that year in relation to the emblem.