Monday November 10, 2025 is the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States Marine Corps.
When a recruit arrives at boot camp, (s)he is issued a new haircut, a new uniform, and a new birthday.
Ask a Marine their birthday, and most will say “November 10.”
Beginning in 1775 Marines served as ship borne troops; however, it was not until 1834 that the Marine Corps was officially attached to the U.S. Navy.
The Navy drives Marines to different places, whereupon Marines disembark and take care of business.
Nowadays, Marines are also delivered by airplanes as well. Some are operated by the Marine Corps and some by the U.S. Air Force.
If it absolutely, positively has to be destroyed, contained, or controlled overnight, America sends the U.S. Marines.
Marines are America’s force in readiness.
Marine Expeditionary Units are always afloat throughout the world’s oceans, ready to be delivered anywhere on short notice.
Whether abord a naval vessel or ashore, Marine Corps equipment and supplies are up to date, well maintained and ready to go.
Marines also guard the nation’s embassies.
A tight bond exists between sailors and Marines, who serve in close quarters.
Many lifelong friendships are formed, and more than a few Marines have married sailors.
A sailor, Felix W. De Weldon, designed the Marine Corps War Memorial at Arlington National Cemetery (pictured above).
Painter Second Class (PTR2) De Weldon immigrated to the U.S. When WWII broke out he enlisted in the Navy. Upon discharge he was granted U.S. citizenship.
The Marine Corps War Memorial accurately recreates the famous Associated Press photograph of six Marines raising the flag on Mount Suribachi on February 23, 1945.
The memorial is dedicated to Marines who have given their lives in defense of the United States.
Each year on November 10 Marines celebrate their birthday. The birthday ball is the biggest event in the annual Marine Corps calendar.
Table reserved for fallen and missing Marines. Photo: USMC
A small, empty table is always placed at the front.
It honors and remembers Marines who gave their lives or are missing in action, and thus who can’t attend the birthday celebration.
Marines like to believe their departed brothers and sisters are holding a birthday formation in heaven. Semper fidelis.
At the ball, a birthday message written in 1921 by General John A. Lejeune is read (click here).
Thereafter a Marine sword is used to cut the birthday cake.
The youngest and oldest Marines in attendance are given the first pieces of cake.
For the youngest Marine, sometimes it is their first Marine Corps birthday.
Cutting the cake at the Marines’ birthday ball. Photo: USMC
Getting a “happy birthday” on November 10 is always appreciated. Once a Marine, always a Marine.
The opinions expressed by contributors are their own and do not necessarily represent the views of Nevada News & Views.
