Happy 249th birthday, United States Marine Corps! From the earliest days of the Continental Marines to present-day missions, the Marine Corps continues to stand as a symbol of courage and resilience. Celebrations this year span the globe, highlighting the Corps’ storied past and ongoing commitment to readiness.
The Birth of the U.S. Marine Corps
On November 10, 1775, the United States Marine Corps was established by the Second Continental Congress, which authorized “two Battalions of Marines” to support and strengthen the U.S. Navy during the Revolutionary War. Captain Samuel Nicholas was appointed to lead recruitment efforts at Philadelphia’s Tun Tavern, a lively tavern and brewery on Water Street that became the iconic birthplace of the Marines. Though the original building is long gone, Tun Tavern holds a special place in Marine Corps history, and a commemorative marker still designates the site as the Marines’ official origin.
Though the Marines served valiantly during the Revolutionary War, the Corps was briefly disbanded after the war ended, as funding and support for a standing marine force were deemed unnecessary. However, on July 11, 1798, Congress officially reestablished the United States Marine Corps, this time under the Department of the Navy. President John Adams signed the bill, ensuring that the Marines would become a permanent fixture in U.S. military history. For over a century, this July 11 date was celebrated as “Marine Corps Day,” until it was formally moved to November 10 in 1921, honoring the Corps’ Revolutionary War roots.
The Birth of the Birthday Celebration
For over a century, November 10th was remembered by Marines but without formal ceremonies. That changed in 1921 when Major Edwin McClellan of the Marine Corps Historical Section suggested to Major General Commandant John A. Lejeune that the Corps’ birthday be marked each year with a proper celebration. On November 1, 1921, Major General Lejeune issued Marine Corps Order No. 47, which designated November 10 as the Corps’ official birthday. His order, which highlights the Corps’ mission and history, was to be read annually to every command as a reminder of the Marine Corps’ enduring values and commitment.
By 1925, the first Marine Corps Birthday Ball took place in Washington, D.C., attended by high-ranking officials and dignitaries from the Marine Corps, Army, and Navy. This event set the stage for the Marine Corps Birthday Ball tradition, which has become a revered annual celebration for Marines worldwide.
Forging Traditions: The Marine Corps Birthday Ball
The Marine Corps Birthday Ball quickly became the heart of the Corps’ annual celebrations. A grand cake was introduced, often shaped like Tun Tavern, symbolizing the Marines’ founding. The ceremonial cake-cutting tradition, first documented at the Washington, D.C. Marine Barracks, includes the use of the Mameluke sword. This sword, symbolizing the Marines’ valor and their commitment to peace, has been part of the Corps’ heritage since Lieutenant Presley O’Bannon’s 1805 assault on Derna, Tripoli.
By 1952, General Lemuel C. Shepherd, Jr. formally established the Birthday Ball traditions, directing that each celebration include a cake-cutting ceremony and reading of both Major General Lejeune’s birthday message and the Commandant’s message. The cutting of the cake itself holds special meaning: the first piece is presented to the guest of honor, followed by the second piece to the oldest Marine present, who then passes it to the youngest Marine present. This symbolic gesture highlights the Corps’ commitment to passing down wisdom and tradition from one generation to the next.
The Key Moments and Evolution of the U.S. Marine Corps
Over its nearly two and a half centuries of existence, the U.S. Marine Corps has adapted to new challenges and technologies while remaining true to its core mission and values. Here are some of the most significant milestones and fascinating facts from the Marine Corps’ rich history:
- World War II (1939-1945): In the Pacific theater, Marines took part in legendary battles such as Iwo Jima and Okinawa. Their bravery and tactical skill helped secure victory in some of the toughest campaigns against Japan.
- The Korean War (1950-1953): Known for its bitter cold and harsh conditions, the Korean War tested the resilience of Marines who fought at the Chosin Reservoir and other major battles, enduring severe hardships.
- Vietnam War (1955-1975): The Vietnam War saw intense jungle warfare, with Marines taking on key roles in counterinsurgency operations. Over 58,000 Marines served, with many displaying acts of extraordinary bravery.
- The Gulf War (1990-1991): In Operation Desert Shield, nearly 92,000 Marines were deployed, showcasing rapid mobilization and tactical expertise, which were critical to the success of coalition forces.
- Global War on Terror (2001-Present): Since 2001, Marines have been actively involved in missions across Afghanistan, Iraq, and other regions, embodying the ethos of “Every Marine a Rifleman.”
Marine Corps Veteran Assistance Programs and Services
The United States Marine Corps offers a comprehensive array of support services to assist veterans in their transition to civilian life and to address their ongoing needs. Key programs and resources include:
TogetherWeServed.com: TogetherWeServed provides a dedicated platform where Marines and veterans can connect with former comrades, preserve their service memories, and celebrate their achievements. Through this community, veterans can find old friends, view historic boot camp photos, build a personalized military service plaque, and share their stories. TogetherWeServed.com plays a vital role in honoring each Marine’s service, offering a space that strengthens the bonds of camaraderie and heritage.
Marine Corps League: This organization provides mentorship, career counseling, assistance with transitions, and opportunities for family engagement. It also offers Veteran Service Officer support for navigating VA benefits.
Wounded Warrior Regiment: Dedicated to supporting wounded, ill, and injured Marines and sailors, this regiment offers recovery care, health services, benefits assistance, and transition support.
Marine Corps Community Services (MCCS): MCCS delivers programs that enhance operational readiness and quality of life, including employment services, education and transition assistance, fitness and recreation, deployment support, child care, and family team building.
These programs are designed to ensure that Marine Corps veterans receive the support and resources necessary for a successful transition to civilian life and to maintain their well-being thereafter.
For further information on supporting soldiers and veterans, please visit our VA GUIDANCE ARTICLES on our blog.
Some Fascinating and Unusual Facts About the United States Marine Corps
Here are some unusual and interesting facts about the United States Marine Corps:
- Oldest Military Band
The United States Marine Band, established in 1798, is the oldest continually active professional musical organization in the United States. Known as “The President’s Own,” the band has performed for every U.S. president since John Adams. - First to Raise the Flag on Foreign Soil
Marines were the first to raise the American flag on foreign soil during the Battle of Derna in 1805, marking the famous “shores of Tripoli” line in the Marine Corps Hymn. This battle symbolized the Marines’ capability to operate on land and sea. - The Mameluke Sword Tradition
The Marine Corps officer’s sword, the Mameluke sword, has been part of Marine tradition since Lieutenant Presley O’Bannon received one from an Arabian prince after the Battle of Derna. It’s the oldest weapon still in use by any U.S. Armed Forces branch. - Marine Corps Martial Arts Program (MCMAP)
Known as the “warrior art,” MCMAP is a unique martial arts program that combines various fighting styles, including karate, jiu-jitsu, and boxing. Marines earn colored belts based on skill levels, adding a distinctive aspect to their combat training. - The Silent Drill Platoon
This drill team performs precise rifle movements without verbal commands. Established in 1948, the Silent Drill Platoon represents the Corps at ceremonies worldwide, displaying discipline and perfection. - Every Marine a Rifleman
Every Marine, regardless of their military occupation specialty (MOS), is trained as a rifleman. This means that even those in non-combat roles are proficient with a rifle, embodying the Corps’ belief in combat readiness. - Nickname “Devil Dogs”
During World War I, German soldiers reportedly gave Marines the nickname “Teufel Hunden” (Devil Dogs) for their relentless fighting in the Battle of Belleau Wood. The name has become a proud part of Marine Corps lore.
These facts illustrate the Marine Corps’ rich traditions, distinct identity, and its lasting influence on American history and military culture.
How to Join in Celebrating the Birthday of the United States Marine Corps
If you’d like to honor the Marine Corps, here are some meaningful ways to join the celebration:
- Attend a Marine Corps Birthday Ball: Join formal celebrations held in locations worldwide, bringing together Marines, veterans, and supporters for dinner, music, and tradition.
- Watch a Marine Corps Birthday Ceremony: Many bases host commemorative events that include cake-cutting ceremonies, speeches, and performances.
- Support Marine Corps Charities: Make a difference by contributing to organizations that assist Marines, veterans, and their families, providing essential resources and assistance.
- Wear Marine Corps Gear: Show your appreciation and pride by wearing Marine Corps apparel, symbolizing your support for those who serve.
- Thank a Marine: Take a moment to personally thank Marines, acknowledging their dedication and sacrifice in service to the nation.
249th Birthday of the United States Marine Corps: A Message From The Commandant Of The Marine Corps
For 249 years, Marines have served as our Nation’s sentinels of freedom. As we celebrate our Corps’ birthday this year, I encourage all Marines to reflect on our legacy forged in blood on battlefields since 1775, and to rededicate ourselves to carrying that legacy untarnished into the future. Collectively, we who wear the Eagle, Globe, and Anchor have an obligation to uphold the ideals of self-discipline, warfighting proficiency, professionalism, and personal conduct that define what it means to be a Marine. I know you are all up to the task. Twenty years ago this month, Marines fought and won the Second Battle of Fallujah, a brutal, grinding house to house fight, whose victory ultimately paved the way for the stabilization of the Republic of Iraq. Often in Iraq there were no true front lines, and by necessity, Fallujah was a battle in which every Marine fought, demonstrating once again our cornerstone philosophy that Every Marine is a Rifleman. Our history bears witness to Marines of all stripes picking up their rifles and fighting for Corps and Country when the call came. From Wake Island to the Chosin Reservoir to Khe Sanh to Camp Bastion, every Marine fought. Our future battles will be no different. Our rear areas will be as vulnerable as our front lines and every Marine from our infantry battalions to our aviation squadrons to our headquarters and support elements will have to stand-to when called. Preparing for the threats of the future requires the same exceptional standards and ironclad discipline that are the hallmarks of our Corps. Twenty years ago in Fallujah, our predecessors staunchly adhered to these virtues, earned our Nation’s trust, and ensured the U.S. Marine Corps would remain the most feared fighting force in the world. It is our sworn duty to uphold those standards and stay true to our Core Values of Honor, Courage, and Commitment. Though technology and equipment change, the Marine Corps’ culture of excellence must not. The road ahead is far from certain, but our ethos will never change — Every Marine a Rifleman and Everyone Fights. As I’ve said before, it is the honor of my lifetime to be a Marine and serve as your Commandant. I’m proud to stand alongside each of you, and I’m excited to see what the future holds for our Corps. When I travel to visit Marines here at home and deployed around the globe, I find absolute confidence that this generation of Marines has what it takes to uphold our Corps’ legacy and prevail in any conflict we face. Happy Birthday, Marines!
Honoring the Legacy: Celebrating 249th Birthday of the United States Marine Corps
On this 249th birthday, the Marine Corps pays tribute to every Marine who has served with honor, courage, and commitment. Standing strong for nearly 2.5 centuries, the Corps remains “Always Faithful,” prepared to defend the nation wherever needed.
With ceremonies from coast to coast and abroad, Marines continue to embody Semper Fidelis, honoring their commitment to protect and serve the nation. Happy Birthday to the U.S. Marine Corps!
The Birth of Together We Served: Honoring Military Service and Building Connections
Together We Served (TWS) was launched on the Marine Corps Birthday, November 10, 2003, with a mission to honor the service and sacrifices of U.S. Military Veterans. Our platform provides a unique space for reconnecting with former brothers- and sisters-in-arms, preserving military histories, and celebrating the camaraderie that defines military life. Below are some of the core features that make Together We Served an invaluable resource for veterans:
Powerful Veteran Locator: Through an extensive unit database and advanced search engine, TWS connects veterans with those who served in the same units at the same time. This feature allows users to create a personal list of Brothers, Shipmates, or Wingmen, staying connected with the friends they served alongside.
Remember Your Military Service: TWS enables veterans to build a visual record of their entire military service, enhanced with photos, service histories, and memories. Veterans can explore the stories of those who served from World War II to the present day, creating a shared tapestry of U.S. military experience.
Service Recognition Plaque: Veterans can create a plaque of their military service, complete with badges, insignia, and ribbon racks as worn on their uniform. These plaques, which can be printed and framed, offer a lasting tribute to their service.
U.S. Military Unit Directory: TWS hosts the largest directory of U.S. Military Units, with detailed pages for over 158,451 units. Each page includes assigned members, unit patches, unit histories, photos, and information on upcoming reunions.
National Veterans Roll of Honor: Together We Served’s extensive Roll of Honor preserves the service histories of 2,402,341 Americans who served. Veterans and their families can honor living or deceased military members with Military Service Tribute Pages, preserving their legacies for future generations.
Together We Served is more than a record of military service; it is a living tribute to the men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces, providing a lasting record of dedication and sacrifice for veterans and their families to treasure and remember.
Read About Other Military Stories
If you enjoyed learning about the rich history and 249th Birthday of the United States Marine Corps, we invite you to read the stories of other remarkable soldiers and their heroic deeds on our blog. In addition to our profiles of celebrities who served, we share military book reviews, veterans’ service reflections, famous military units and more on the TogetherWeServed.com blog. If you are a veteran, find your military buddies, view historic boot camp photos, build a printable military service plaque, and more on TogetherWeServed.com today.
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I served in the army during the Vietnam war I took basic training at Fort Gordon Ga and from there went to Fort Campbell Ky and from there Vietnam and after Vietnam got out from Fort Lewis Washington. I loved my two years and have many memories both good and hard days .
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