The Marine Corps is older than the country itself. With its founding date on Nov. 10, 1775, the Marine Corps was almost a year old when the United States declared independence. Like any other birthday, the Marine Corps birthday is a time of celebration. For some, it is a time to look back fondly on the days in Okinawa, Parris Island or Camp Pendleton. For others, it is a time to remember fallen siblings in arms. For many, looking back to the day they received their Eagle, Globe and Anchor is how they celebrate. To help you celebrate the Marine Corps Birthday, here are some random facts about this branch of the Military:
- The Marine Corps has command of the title “Honorary Marine.” Less than 100 people have received this honor. Among them are Chuck Norris Master Sgt. Bugs Bunny, Gary Sinise and Brig. Gen. Bob Hope.
- The Marines have a mascot named Chesty. He is an English bulldog named after the only Maine to earn five Navy Crosses.
- Semper Fidelis is the Marine Corps motto. It means “always faithful.”
- The Crucible is the last test for Marine recruits. All the skills and knowledge which a Marine should have are represented by this collection of tests. The Crucible is a 54-hour field test including 48 hours of marching. After various tests and only six hours of sleep, the recruits face The Reaper on the final day. The Reaper is a 9.7 mile march up a 700-foot tall mountain.
- Drill instructors reward recruits the Warrior’s Breakfast when they come down from The Reaper. There, they eat however much they want after surviving on small rations throughout the Crucible.
- During boot camp, recruits only have as much time as their drill instructor allows them to eat—forcing them to eat extremely fast.
- Comedians Rob Riggle and Drew Carey both served in the Marine Corps. Riggle served for 23 years.
Give Back To Marines
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FAQs
Every year since 1925 the founding of the Marine Corps has been celebrated with a Birthday Ball.
How do you celebrate the Marine Corps birthday? ›
Every year since 1925 the founding of the Marine Corps has been celebrated with a Birthday Ball.
Who cuts the cake at the Marine Corps Ball? ›
The Senior Marine of the Ball cuts all three pieces of cake and places each piece on a plate, with a fork provided by the Senior Cake Escort. The pieces of cake are then presented, in 5 order, to the Guest of Honor, oldest Marine, and youngest Marine.
Why is the Marine Corps birthday such a big deal? ›
The United States Marine Corps Birthday is an American holiday celebrated every year on 10 November with a traditional ball and cake-cutting ceremony. On that day in 1775, the Continental Marines were established.
How old is the Marine Corps in 2024? ›
November 10, 2024, marks the 249th birthday of the United States Marine Corps. “On Nov.
What do Marines eat for Marine Corps' birthday? ›
On the day of the birthday, the food service specialists of Phelps Hall spend the morning completing the preparation for the infamous steak, lobster tails, baked potatoes and Cornish hens. “The Marines who prepare the food receive an opportunity to show their appreciation for their fellow comrades,” said Staff Sgt.
What happens at a Marine Corps birthday ball? ›
It is a chance to get dressed to the nines, enjoy an evening of tradition, and celebrate the history of the Corps. As the Ball is a formal affair both Marines and guests are expected to behave appropriately and follow rules of proper etiquette.
Who eats first in the Marines? ›
No phrase better summarizes what it means to be a Marine officer than “officers eat last.” Officers eat last in the Marine Corps because the young men and women in their care eat first.
Can former Marines attend the Marine Corps ball? ›
Once a Marine, always a Marine. That said, Marine veterans if interested in attending a Marine birthday ball should reach out to local Marine units and inquire about attendance.
Do you say happy birthday to Marines? ›
Every year on Nov. 10, Marine Corps veterans receive emails, calls and Facebook messages wishing them a happy birthday. There are times throughout the year when we remember what it means to be a veteran, when we honor our fallen comrades on Memorial Day, or celebrate veterans on Veterans Day.
And the Marines have the Marine Corps Birthday to commemorate their roots, one day earlier. All active duty and former Marines will wish each other a happy birthday on the Marine Corps Birthday.
What is Marine Corps Order 47? ›
47, Series 1921. Gen. Lejeune's order summarized the history, mission, and tradition of the Corps. It further directed that the order be read to all Marines each year on 10 November to honor the founding of the Marine Corps.
Why are Marines called Marines? ›
Historically, marines serve as a navy's ground troops. In fact, the word "marine" is the French word for sea, which may be why the French military historically called English troops — who all had to arrive by sea — "marines."
What is the oldest you can be to join the Marines? ›
Eligibility Requirements
To enlist as a Marine, you must obtain your high school diploma and be a legal U.S. resident between 17 and 28. To commission as a Marine Officer, you must be a United States citizen between 20 and 28 and have obtained both a high school diploma and a bachelor's degree.
Who has the oldest Marine Corps? ›
The Spanish Navy Marines (Infantería de Marina) are the oldest existing marine force in the world, as they were established on February 27, 1537, by Charles I when he permanently assigned the Compañías Viejas del Mar de Nápoles (Naples Sea Old Companies) to the Escuadras de Galeras del Mediterráneo (Mediterranean ...
What is included in the observance of the Marine Corps birthday? ›
The celebration involves the 甘 1 Page 3 reading of an excerpt from the Marine Corps Manual and a birth- day message from the Commandant; the cutting of a birthday cake by the commanding officer; and the presentation of the first and second pieces of cake to the oldest and youngest Marines present.
Why does the Marine Corps have two birthdays? ›
Henceforth, the July 11th date was their celebrated birthday, named “Marine Corps Day,” from 1799 until 1921; then it was moved to November 10th to recognize their original founding for the Revolutionary War.
What is the greeting of the day for the Marines? ›
Semper Fidelis is used as a greeting, a motivation, and an expression that unites past and present Marines. During war or peacetime, Semper Fidelis speaks volumes. It represents tradition and responsibility—beginning the moment a young man or woman commits to earning the title of U.S. Marine.
