What Day is the Marine Corps Birthday?
The Marine Corps Birthday is a significant and esteemed occasion in the history of the United States Marine Corps. It commemorates the founding of the Continental Marines on November 10, 1775.
Contents
**Founding of the Continental Marines**
The Continental Marines were created by the Second Continental Congress to serve as a marine branch of the Continental Navy, which was established just two days earlier. Congress passed a resolution on November 10, 1775, establishing two battalions of marines, with approximately 300 men. General George Washington, commander-in-chief of the Continental Army, was appointed to the rank of Colonel, placing him in command of the new marine corps.
**Purpose and Mission**
The Continental Marines were created to provide an amphibious force to serve as a naval infantry. Their primary mission was to:
• Capture or destroy enemy ships
• Conduct raids and shore landings
• Guard American ships and harbors
• Provide security and support to the Continental Navy
**Marine Corps Traditions and Customs**
The Marine Corps birthday is celebrated with a distinct set of traditions and customs that have been passed down through the years. These customs include:
• The TBS (The Birthday Song): A special ballad written by Major Thomas A. Wornham, USMC, which commemorates the birthday and is sung by Marines during ceremonies.
• The sword-arch ceremony: The presenting of the Marine Corps cake, symbolizing the linking of the past to the present.
• The toasts: A tradition in which Marines raise their glasses in a toast to honor those who have served before them.
**Celebrations and Parades**
The Marine Corps birthday is typically celebrated on November 10, with parades and ceremonies taking place at marine installations around the world. The celebrations often include a special cake-cutting ceremony, where the oldest active duty Marine and the youngest recruit simultaneously cut the birthday cake.
**Table of Important Marine Corps Dates**
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| November 10, 1775 | The Continental Marines were founded |
| November 26, 1775 | First Marine Corps command was issued |
| November 18, 1850 | The Marine Corps expanded to 3,921 enlisted personnel |
| January 11, 1932 | The Marine Corps celebrates its 156th birthday |
| November 10, 1949 | The Marine Corps adopted its current birthday ball style cake |
**Conclusion**
The Marine Corps birthday is a significant celebration of the founding of the United States Marine Corps on November 10, 1775. The history of the Marine Corps dates back to the American Revolutionary War, and the corps has since become a key component of the United States Armed Forces. The customs, traditions, and sacrifices of the Marine Corps continue to inspire and motivate service members and civilians alike, solidifying the Marine Corps as a symbol of national pride and strength.
Whether you’re a Marine veteran or simply a history buff, the Marine Corps birthday is an occasion to pay respects to the brave men and women who have worn the eagle, globe, and anchor.
