USMC 240th Birthday Ball
Ever since 1921 when Commandant John Lejeune signed a Marine Corps Order designating November 10th as the official birth of the Marine Corps, Marines celebrated by wishing each other a happy birthday and listening to General Lejeune’s Birthday Message. The message summarizes the history, mission and tradition of the Corps. The date was chosen because on that day in 1775 the second Continental Congress approved the formation of two battalions of Continental Marines.
This year marked the 240th Birthday of the Corps. As in years past, Marines wished each other a happy birthday and attended a formal birthday celebration. Celebrations included a historical uniform pageant; a reading of Major General Lejeune’s Birthday Message; a message from the Commandant of the Marine Corps and a cake cutting ceremony. In addition many Marines attended a Marine Corps Birthday Ball.
Michael and Vera Basilone at the 2015 Birthday Ball
My husband and I attended the Headquarters & Service Battalion ball. Even though he’s been retired for 16 years, Mike fit in his uniform and looked great! Highlights for me included hearing the Marine Band, watching the cake cutting ceremony and chatting with co-workers and their families during dinner.
In addition to the reading of Commandant Lejeune’s message, the current Commandant, General Robert B. Neller sends a message too. This year’s video presentation captured the essence of the Marine Corps so I included it for your viewing pleasure. In it you will see images of the yellow foot prints, the white bus carrying new recruits to Parris Island, and new Marines receiving the Eagle Globe and Anchor. You will hear the Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps mention the 100th Anniversary of making Marines on Parris Island. And you will be reminded this is the 70th anniversary of the Battle of Iwo Jima, where many Marines died, including John Basilone. General Robert B. Neller and Sergeant Major Ronald L. Green give an inspiring birthday message.
USMC Birthday Cake
After the Commandant’s message the Color Guard presents the Colors and the birthday cake is wheeled into the room. Usually the first piece of cake is offered to the oldest and youngest Marine to symbolize the passing on of Marine Corps traditions from one generation to another; the second piece is given to the guest of honor. Cake cutting ceremonies were not always part of the celebration and its origins are unknown. I especially enjoy this part of the ceremony because I remember a time when my husband received the honor of being the youngest Marine at the ball way back during his first year in the Marine Corps.
After the cake cutting, the Commanding Officer says a few words then introduces the Guest of Honor. This year our guest, retired Lieutenant General Frederick McCorkle, delivered one of the best speeches I’ve ever heard at a USMC Ball. After the speakers the Colors are retired and the Marines march off ending the formal events. Dinner begins followed by desert and dancing.
The Marine Corps has a proud and prestigious past and it is nice to know that friends and family can share in this legacy by carrying on the traditions that honor our Marines. I hope you enjoyed learning more about the Marine Corps Birthday. Semper Fi and Happy Thanksgiving.
Vera & Michael Basilone at a USMC Birthday Ball back in the old days.
2 comments
Vera – Is your husband related to John Basilone of GC fame. If so, I knew his brother Carlo and sister Mary back in the ’70’s. As you may know, the town of Raritan. NJ could well be name Basiloneville.
Hi Ric,
Yes, my husband is a cousin of John’s.
Happy Holidays!
Vera