What is the Marine Corps Ball?
The Marine Corps Ball, also known as the Marine Corps Birthday Ball, is a formal military ceremony that commemorates the founding of the United States Marine Corps. The event is celebrated annually on November 10th, the anniversary of the Corps’ birthday, and is a significant tradition within the Marine Corps.
History of the Marine Corps Ball
The Marine Corps Ball has its roots in 1775, when the Continental Congress passed a resolution establishing the Continental Marines on November 10th. The first Marine Corps birthday ball was held in 1921, when General John A. Lejeune, the 13th Commandant of the Marine Corps, ordered all Marine Corps units to celebrate the Corps’ birthday on November 10th.
The tradition was revived in the 1930s, when General Thomas Holcomb, the 17th Commandant of the Marine Corps, encouraged units to hold birthday balls to boost morale and esprit de corps. Since then, the Marine Corps Ball has become an annual tradition, with thousands of Marines and their guests attending ceremonies around the world.
Traditions and Customs
The Marine Corps Ball is a formal ceremony that includes several traditional customs and rituals. Here are some of the most significant:
- Formal Dress: Marines are required to wear formal dress uniforms, including a mess dress uniform or a Marine Corps Ball gown. Guest dress is typically formal as well.
- Traditional Cake Cutting: A ceremonial cake is cut by the senior Marine officer and a distinguished guest, often a prominent Marine Corps officer or a high-ranking government official.
- Oath of Enlistment: Recruits who are joining the Marine Corps for the first time take the Oath of Enlistment, pledging to defend the United States and the Marine Corps.
- The Birthday Message: The senior Marine officer delivers a message commemorating the founding of the Marine Corps and paying tribute to its history and traditions.
- Marine Corps Hymn: The Marine Corps Hymn is sung during the ceremony, along with other patriotic songs.
- Toasts and Awards: The ceremony often includes toasts to the Corps, its officers, and its enlisted personnel. Awards and decorations are also presented to deserving Marines.
What to Expect at the Marine Corps Ball
Attending a Marine Corps Ball can be a unique and memorable experience. Here are some things you can expect:
- Formal Ceremony: The ceremony is formal and dignified, with a strict protocol for the proceedings.
- Food and Drink: A formal dinner is usually served, often featuring traditional military cuisine such as roast beef and mashed potatoes.
- Music and Entertainment: Live music and entertainment, such as a Marine Corps band or a dance troupe, are often part of the ceremony.
- Awards and Recognitions: Awards and recognitions are presented to deserving Marines, including valor awards and other honors.
- Socializing and Mingling: The ceremony is followed by a reception or dance, where guests can mingle and socialize.
Table of Marine Corps Ball Traditions
Here is a table summarizing the key traditions and customs of the Marine Corps Ball:
| Tradition | Description |
|---|---|
| Formal Dress | Marines and guests wear formal dress uniforms |
| Cake Cutting | Ceremonial cake cutting by senior officer and guest |
| Oath of Enlistment | Recruits take the Oath of Enlistment |
| Birthday Message | Senior officer delivers message commemorating the Corps’ founding |
| Marine Corps Hymn | Hymn sung during the ceremony |
| Toasts and Awards | Toasts to the Corps and its personnel, with awards and decorations presented |
Conclusion
The Marine Corps Ball is a significant tradition within the United States Marine Corps, commemorating the founding of the Corps on November 10th. The ceremony is formal and dignified, with a range of traditions and customs that pay tribute to the Corps’ history and values. Whether you’re a Marine or a guest, attending a Marine Corps Ball is a unique and memorable experience that is sure to inspire pride and patriotism.
