PFC Michael Basilone during his first tour at Little Creek (we were dating at the time), had the distinction of being the youngest Marine for the Landing Force Training Command Birthday Ball.
November 10th marks the Marine Corps 239th birthday. On this day in the year 1775, the Continental Congress authorized the creation of the Continental Marines. The first Marines to enlist were found at Tun Tavern in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Today, United States Marines all over the world will take time to wish each other a happy birthday and say things like, “We don’t look a day over two hundred and twenty!” During November, Marines and their guests will dress for the Marine Birthday Ball and celebrate 239 years of history (and enjoy a little dancing too). It happens every year, but did you know the Marine Corps birthday wasn’t always celebrated on November 10th?
Marine Corps Birthday in July?
After the Revolutionary War the Marine Corps disbanded until July 11, 1798 when President John Adams approved a bill to re-establish the Corps. From that year until 1921 the day was observed in July. Major McClellan, from the historical section of Headquarters Marine Corps in Quantico suggested they declare 10 November 1775 a Marine Corps holiday to be celebrated throughout the Corps. On November 1, 1921, General Lejeune issued a birthday message to be read on November 10th by all commands to mark the occasion. Four years later, General Lejeune attended the first formal birthday ball held in Philadelphia.
USMC Birthday Ball Invitation
New Customs & Traditions
In 1952, the 20th Commandant of the Marine Corps, General Lemuel C. Shepherd, Jr. detailed a cake cutting ceremony. Additional customs evolved over the years like giving the first piece of cake to the oldest Marine present who hands it off to the youngest Marine in attendance. This gesture symbolizes the passing of knowledge from one generation of Marines to the next.Another tradition involves a pageant showing historic uniforms worn by Marines throughout their 239 year history. Parris Island held their pageant this past Thursday. Several years ago a Marine who worked in my area volunteered; he wore a WWI era uniform.
Although I worked during most of Mike’s career, we occasionally attended the Ball. I enjoyed spending time with the Marines in celebration; it is this camaraderie that sets the Marine Corps apart from the other services. The Marine Corps Birthday is a wonderful tradition that reminds us of those who went before and how important it is to understand the past so we can create a better future. When you see a Marine today don’t forget to wish him/her happy birthday and say, “You don’t look a day over two hundred and twenty!”
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