How Old is the Marine Corps Birthday?
The Marine Corps birthday is celebrated on November 10th every year, marking the anniversary of the establishment of the Continental Marines on November 10, 1775. But how did this special day come to be?
The Birth of the Continental Marines
The Continental Marines were formed on November 10, 1775, when the Second Continental Congress passed a resolution stating that "two Battalions of Marines be raised" to serve as a naval infantry force. This resolution was a response to the need for a specialized force that could fight on land and sea, and was inspired by the British Royal Marines.
The First Commandant
The first Commandant of the Continental Marines was Samuel Nicholas, who was appointed on November 28, 1775. Nicholas was a tavern owner from Philadelphia who had experience in the British Army and was known for his leadership skills. He played a crucial role in establishing the Marine Corps and setting its early standards.
The Early Years
The Continental Marines played a significant role in the American Revolutionary War, participating in battles such as Trenton, Princeton, and Yorktown. They also served as a naval infantry force, fighting alongside the Continental Navy.
The End of the War
After the war, the Continental Marines were disbanded, and the Marine Corps was re-established in 1798 as a separate branch of the US military. This time, it was to serve as a permanent force, rather than a temporary one.
The Modern Marine Corps
Today, the Marine Corps is one of the most respected and feared military forces in the world. With a rich history and tradition, it has evolved into a highly trained and specialized force, capable of operating in a variety of environments and scenarios.
Celebrating the Marine Corps Birthday
The Marine Corps birthday is celebrated with a variety of traditions and ceremonies. One of the most significant is the birthday ball, which is held on the evening of November 9th or 10th. The ball is attended by Marines and their families, and features a formal dinner, speeches, and a cake-cutting ceremony.
The Cake-Cutting Ceremony
The cake-cutting ceremony is a highlight of the birthday ball, and is a tradition that dates back to 1921. According to legend, the cake is cut by the oldest and youngest Marines present, symbolizing the passing of tradition and knowledge from one generation to the next.
The Marine Corps Birthday Message
Every year, the Commandant of the Marine Corps delivers a birthday message to the Corps, which is broadcast to Marines around the world. The message is a reminder of the Corps’ history and traditions, and serves as a call to action for Marines to continue to uphold the values and standards of the Marine Corps.
Key Dates in Marine Corps History
Here are some key dates in Marine Corps history:
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| November 10, 1775 | The Continental Marines are formed |
| November 28, 1775 | Samuel Nicholas is appointed Commandant of the Continental Marines |
| 1798 | The Marine Corps is re-established as a separate branch of the US military |
| 1921 | The cake-cutting ceremony is introduced |
| 1941 | The Marine Corps is involved in the attack on Pearl Harbor |
| 1950s-1960s | The Marine Corps plays a significant role in the Vietnam War |
| 1990s-2000s | The Marine Corps is involved in the Gulf War and the War on Terror |
Conclusion
The Marine Corps birthday is a significant day in the history of the Corps, marking the anniversary of its establishment in 1775. From its humble beginnings as a small force of naval infantry to its current status as a highly respected and feared military force, the Marine Corps has a rich history and tradition that is celebrated every year on November 10th.
