The United States Marine Corps begins its preparations for the annual Marine Corps Ball in the early summer. The formal commemoration of the Marine Corps birthday was first conducted on November 10th,1921. The date was selected because on that day the Second Continental Congress resolved to raise two battalions of Continental Marines.

Between 1798 and 1921 the birthday was celebrated on July 11th. At the close of the Revolution the Marines and Navy were nearly disbanded, but on July 11th 1798 President John Adams drafted a bill that recreated the Marine Corps.

On October 21 1921 Major Edwin Mclellan and officer in charge of the Historical Section sent a memorandum to the Commnadant General John A Lejeune suggesting that the date be returned to November 10th.

The request was granted and on November 1st, 1921 Major General Lejeune issued Marine Corps Order 47, Series 1921. The order summarized the history, mission and tradition of the Corps and directed it to be read to every command on November 10th of each subsequent year in honor of the Marine Corps. That order has been carried out to this day.

The first grand birthday ball was most likely held in Philadelphia in 1925. The main event was the presentation of a tablet showcasing the original founding site at Tunn Tavern. The gift was from the Thomas Roberts Reath Post of the American Legion whose membership was composed of all Marines.

It is not known when the first cake ceremony was held, but it is thought to have been at Quantico, Virginia in 1935.  Traditionally, the first piece of cake is presented to the oldest Marine present and the second piece to the youngest Marine present. When and how this tradition began is not recorded, but it remains as the centerpiece of all celebrations. All celebrations include the reading of that original Order 47, coupled with the current Commandants message to all those assembled.

Just like the Marine Corps itself, this Birthday Ball has evolved from simple beginnings to a polished totally class act that is celebrated world wide.

The best part of this day, is the phone calls and emails from Marines of all ages, simply wishing each other a Happy Birthday Marine! Camaraderie and respect like that is hard to match.

Semper Fidelis United States Marines!

Source:MCL