November 10th, the United States Marine Corps celebrates its 240th Birthday! As a time honored tradition, Marines celebrate with a message from their Commandant and a cake cutting ceremony. The oldest Marine in attendance takes a bite of cake and passes it to the youngest Marine, symbolizing the knowledge and culture that embraces all Marines and how it is passed along warrior generations.
Dennis attended the "Soldiers of the Sea, Band of Brothers, Inc., Marine Corps Ball as a guest of Godes & Preis, LLP, on Friday November 6th in Dana Point, California and was in awe of the number of real heroes in attendance. Guest from all branches of service arrived in black tie or full dress uniforms to celebrate the 240th birthday party.
The Guest of Honor, Colonel Jay Bargeron, just returned home two weeks ago from another tour in the Middle East as the Seventh Marine Regiment Commander and his remarks were passionate on the role of Marines and his reintroduction to family life.
Three Navy Cross recipients and one Air Force Cross recipient were also in attendance, and were introduced to a standing ovation as the ceremony began. Their citations, printed in the ball program, were both inspiring and humbling at the same time.
As dinner was served, traditional toasts were made and the Thomas A. Richards Memorial Beer Stein Award was presented to this year's recipient Roy Fussel.
Music, dancing, drinks and cigars rounded out the evening and every Marine held his head higher as their beloved Corp added another year of maturity and experience.
