United States Marine Corps Birthday

Celebrated on 11/10/2026

Quick Fact

The United States Marine Corps Birthday is celebrated every year on November 10, commemorating the founding of the Continental Marines in 1775. A cherished tradition is the cake-cutting ceremony, where the first piece is given to the oldest Marine present, symbolizing the passing of knowledge and tradition.

Origins and Establishment of United States Marine Corps Birthday

The United States Marine Corps was established on November 10, 1775, when the Second Continental Congress resolved to raise two battalions of Continental Marines. This action, taken during the American Revolutionary War, created the naval infantry force that would later become the modern Marine Corps. The birthday celebration itself was not formalized until 1921, when Major General John A. Lejeune, the 13th Commandant of the Marine Corps, issued Marine Corps Order No. 47, directing that the Marine Corps Birthday be celebrated annually on November 10. This order established the tradition of reading the original resolution and the Commandant's message, which continues today.

Evolution and Modern Commemoration

Over time, the Marine Corps Birthday celebration has evolved from simple ceremonies into elaborate balls and events. The modern celebration typically includes a formal dinner, the reading of the Commandant's message, a cake-cutting ceremony, and a toast to the Marine Corps. The cake-cutting ritual, introduced in the 1950s, involves presenting the first piece to the oldest Marine and the second to the youngest, symbolizing the transfer of experience and vitality. Today, Marine units worldwide host birthday balls, often with guest speakers, musical performances, and displays of Marine Corps history and traditions. The celebration has become a key event for fostering esprit de corps and honoring the service and sacrifice of Marines past and present.

Facts & General Observations

• The Marine Corps Birthday is one of the few military branch birthdays celebrated with official ceremonies across all units, including those deployed overseas.
• The traditional birthday cake is often adorned with red, gold, and blue frosting, representing the Marine Corps colors, and is cut with a Marine Corps NCO sword.
• The Marine Corps is the smallest of the U.S. military branches, but its birthday celebrations are among the most elaborate and widely observed, reflecting its unique culture and history.

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