Here are the key ways the Marine Corps traditionally marks the occasion:
1. The Birthday Ball
The centerpiece of the celebration is the Marine Corps Birthday Ball, a formal military dinner and dance held by units and bases around the globe. Marines wear their formal dress uniforms (Dress Blues), and the event brings together active duty personnel, veterans, and their families to honor the history and heritage of the Corps.
2. The Traditional Cake-Cutting Ceremony
Every official celebration features a standardized cake cutting ceremony rich in symbolism:
The Commandant's Message: A message from the current Commandant of the Marine Corps is read aloud to the assembled Marines, reflecting on the past year and the history of the Corps.
The Oldest and Youngest Marines: A piece of cake is traditionally cut and presented to the oldest Marine present, who in turn passes a piece to the youngest Marine present. This symbolizes the passing of history, knowledge, and traditions from the older generation of warriors to the newest generation.
The First Slice to the Guest of Honor: Before that, the very first pieces of cake are usually served to the Guest of Honor and the commanding officer.
3. Reading of General John A. Lejeune's Birthday Message
During the ceremony, the official birthday message written in 1921 by Major General John A. Lejeune (the 13th Commandant of the Marine Corps) is read. It outlines the history, responsibilities, and traditions of the Corps and is recited annually to remind every Marine of their place in history.
4. Marine Corps Hymn and Toasts
The celebration always includes the playing or singing of the "Marines' Hymn" ("From the Halls of Montezuma..."). Toasts are traditionally made to honor the President of the United States, fallen comrades, and all Marines past and present.
Thank you for your service. 🫡
1. The Birthday Ball
The centerpiece of the celebration is the Marine Corps Birthday Ball, a formal military dinner and dance held by units and bases around the globe. Marines wear their formal dress uniforms (Dress Blues), and the event brings together active duty personnel, veterans, and their families to honor the history and heritage of the Corps.
2. The Traditional Cake-Cutting Ceremony
Every official celebration features a standardized cake cutting ceremony rich in symbolism:
The Commandant's Message: A message from the current Commandant of the Marine Corps is read aloud to the assembled Marines, reflecting on the past year and the history of the Corps.
The Oldest and Youngest Marines: A piece of cake is traditionally cut and presented to the oldest Marine present, who in turn passes a piece to the youngest Marine present. This symbolizes the passing of history, knowledge, and traditions from the older generation of warriors to the newest generation.
The First Slice to the Guest of Honor: Before that, the very first pieces of cake are usually served to the Guest of Honor and the commanding officer.
3. Reading of General John A. Lejeune's Birthday Message
During the ceremony, the official birthday message written in 1921 by Major General John A. Lejeune (the 13th Commandant of the Marine Corps) is read. It outlines the history, responsibilities, and traditions of the Corps and is recited annually to remind every Marine of their place in history.
4. Marine Corps Hymn and Toasts
The celebration always includes the playing or singing of the "Marines' Hymn" ("From the Halls of Montezuma..."). Toasts are traditionally made to honor the President of the United States, fallen comrades, and all Marines past and present.
Thank you for your service. 🫡