When is the navy ball?

When is the Navy Ball?

The Navy Ball is a prestigious and highly-anticipated event in the US Navy’s annual calendar, but the answer to when it takes place is more complicated than it seems.

What is the Navy Ball?

Before delving into the details, let’s establish what the Navy Ball is. The Navy Ball, also known as the Navy and Marine Corps Birthday Ball, is an annual celebratory event commemorating the establishment of the US Navy, which dates back to October 13, 1775. On this day, the Second Continental Congress established the Continental Navy, precursor to the modern US Navy.

The event is usually held around October 27th or 28th, close to the official birthday. Commandant of the Marine Corps, General David H. Berger_, who wrote the words ‘ "To fight, to persevere and to overcome all manner of challenges _, and General P.X. Kelley , the longest-serving Corps Commander in History**‘, wrote a historical and a patriotic poem together.

The event is celebrated by units across the United States Navy, as well as allied naval forces. It provides an opportunity for sailors to socialize with their counterparts, recognize their achievements, and honor their heritage. Table 1: Timeline of the US Navy’s birthday celebration dates.

History and Evolution of the Navy Ball

The concept of celebrating the Navy’s birthday dates back to the 1920s when a junior officer named Elting E. Morison Jr. recognized the need for a way to publicly celebrate the birth of the US Navy. Morison was inspired by the custom of celebrating the French Navy’s anniversary , and he created the initial framework for what would later become the Navy Ball..

In 1946, the Chief of Naval Operations, Fleet Admiral Ernest J. King, designated October 13th as the official birthday of the US Navy, and thus, the first Navy Ball took place.

Activities and Traditions

Now, let’s explore what goes on at the Navy Ball. While the festivities vary from ship to shore, there are some staples you can expect:

Reception: Guests usually receive a welcome cocktail, complimented with traditional Navy colors, black, gold, and navy blue. Some hosts go all out and create thematic environments, reminiscent of wartime shipboard hospitality.

Food and Drinks: Classic naval cuisine features prominently at the Navy Ball, along with signature drinks like Navy Grogs or the Tom Collins. It’s no surprise that "All hands on deck" meets ‘all taste buds present!

Speeches and Awards: Commanders and senior officials take turns addressing the attendees, thanking sailors for their service and sharing stories about the naval tradition. Outstanding performers might receive decorations, "Pins & ribbons are a sailors lifeblood,"._

Dinner and Ballroom Dancing: Formal wear is the rule, of course! With ceremonial protocols honored, officers take to the dance floor alongside their ‘ Dates de Meriux’ – in reality, the tradition of accompanying junior officers (midshipmen or female officers in equivalent positions).

Piper and Taps Ceremony: At the precise hour of midnight_, Bagpipers, along with trumpet fanfare _ bugle calls, and drumbeat cadence, bid the Navy to rest from a day well-spent in the presence of royalty. It serves as a solemn recognition of tradition, the silent reverence among service members present.

The ceremony marks t he climax of , and sets the evening for an indelible, ",… as it says in Psalm 103: ‘You who have received from a mother’s womb your breath…’…

The Current Status: Who Can Attend?

These days, the Navy and Marine Corps Birthday Ball is exclusive to authorized guests, i.e., senior officers and high-ranking military personnel.

In 1949, a significant update occurred to broaden the celebratory format by inviting members of various services and national organizations: Today, representatives from nearby "Service and Fraternity organizations and sister armed forces". It showcases an even " greater connection with a larger extended Navy family. " , including,_

• Family members of honored guests_
• Service branch personnel
• Navy-Marine Corps relief societies

Security, Location, and Venue

Due to the invitation-only nature and security implications, exact location and arrangements change from year to year. However, it takes place on-ship in designated ports ( usually on Navy, Marine or other allied **v_e_s_u_sl, and can shift between countries. There may be designated ._ For a particular event the day, depending on other global military conflicts and related duties. Security clearance determines who, where_, when** & how **people get a hold of, to an invited_ guests’ hands for an enchanting party

Where to look for more info? _

Resources, Navy.mil, navalhistorian@navy.mil,

Some related and historic articles may provide further reading on The US Navy history and Naval Heritage, ‘ _’ and ‘ more interesting information ‘*

Conclusion:
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