What Date is the Marine Corps Birthday?
The United States Marine Corps is one of the most prestigious and respected branches of the United States military. With a rich history dating back to 1775, the Marine Corps has a significant presence in American military and cultural heritage. One of the most important dates in the Marine Corps calendar is the Marine Corps Birthday, which is celebrated on November 10th.
History of the Marine Corps Birthday
The Marine Corps was founded 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 to support the Continental Navy. This marked the beginning of the United States Marine Corps, which has since grown to become one of the most elite and respected fighting forces in the world.
The Marine Corps Birthday is significant because it commemorates the day when the Continental Congress officially established the Marine Corps as a separate branch of the military. This milestone marked the beginning of the Marine Corps’ long and storied history, which has been marked by countless battles, victories, and sacrifices.
Traditions and Customs
The Marine Corps Birthday is celebrated with traditional customs and rituals that pay homage to the Corps’ rich history and heritage. Some of the most notable traditions include:
- The Cake Cutting Ceremony: On the Marine Corps Birthday, Marines gather to celebrate with a cake-cutting ceremony, where the oldest Marine present cuts the cake along with the youngest Marine present. This tradition symbolizes the passing of knowledge, experience, and tradition from one generation to the next.
- The Corps’ Birthday Message: On the Marine Corps Birthday, the Commandant of the Marine Corps delivers a special birthday message to all Marines around the world. This message honors the sacrifices and bravery of Marines past and present, and looks to the future of the Corps.
- The Marine Corps Hymn: Marines around the world sing the Marine Corps Hymn, which is a song that reflects the Corps’ values, traditions, and history.
Interesting Facts and Statistics
Here are some interesting facts and statistics about the Marine Corps Birthday:
- Oldest Marine Corps Birthday: The oldest Marine Corps Birthday cake was baked in 1883 and weighed over 200 pounds.
- Youngest Marine Corps Birthday: The youngest Marine to participate in the cake-cutting ceremony was a four-year-old boy who cut the cake with his Marine Corps veteran father.
- Marine Corps Birthday Traditions: The Marine Corps Birthday is celebrated with parades, ceremonies, and other events around the world, including in Hawaii, Japan, and Guantanamo Bay.
- Birthday Ball: The Marine Corps Birthday Ball is a formal dinner and dance that takes place on the evening of November 10th. This event is attended by senior military leaders, veterans, and other dignitaries.
Table of Marine Corps Birthday Traditions
| Tradition | Description |
|---|---|
| Cake Cutting Ceremony | Oldest and youngest Marines cut the cake |
| Corps’ Birthday Message | Commandant of the Marine Corps delivers a birthday message |
| Marine Corps Hymn | Marines sing the Marine Corps hymn |
| Birthday Ball | Formal dinner and dance |
Conclusion
The Marine Corps Birthday is a significant date in the United States military calendar, marking the founding of the Marine Corps on November 10, 1775. The date is celebrated with traditional customs and rituals, including the cake-cutting ceremony, the Corps’ birthday message, and the singing of the Marine Corps Hymn. Whether you’re a Marine or simply a fan of the Corps, the Marine Corps Birthday is a time to honor the sacrifices and bravery of Marines past and present.
