Celebrated on 11/10/2026
The Marine Corps Birthday is celebrated every year on November 10th, marking the founding of the United States Marine Corps in 1775 at Tun Tavern in Philadelphia. It is a time-honored tradition for Marines worldwide to hold a formal ball, complete with a cake-cutting ceremony where the first piece is given to the oldest Marine present, and the second to the youngest.
The United States Marine Corps was established on November 10, 1775, by the Second Continental Congress. The resolution, passed in Philadelphia, authorized the recruitment of two battalions of Marines to serve as landing forces for the Continental Navy. The first Marines enlisted at Tun Tavern, a popular gathering place, which is now considered the birthplace of the Corps. The birthday was first officially celebrated in 1921, when Major General John A. Lejeune issued Marine Corps Order No. 47, directing that the history of the Corps be read to all Marines on November 10th each year.
Over time, the celebration evolved from simple readings to elaborate formal balls. The modern Marine Corps Birthday Ball includes a ceremonial cake-cutting, toasts, and the reading of General Lejeune's message. The tradition of the cake-cutting, where the first slice is presented to the oldest Marine and the second to the youngest, symbolizes the passing of heritage and experience. Today, Marines worldwide celebrate with balls, parades, and community events, often incorporating the Marine Corps Hymn and the birthday message.
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