Happy Birthday to the Marine Corps

November 10 is celebrated around the world as the US Marine Corps Birthday.  On this day in 1775 the Marine Corps was founded in the Tun Tavern Philadelphia when the Second Continental Congress voted to raise two battalions of Marines.  

On November 10, 1775, the Continental Congress commissioned Samuel Nicholas to raise two Battalions of Marines.  That very day, Nicholas set up shop in Tun Tavern.  He appointed Robert Mullan, then the proprietor of the tavern, to the job of chief Marine Recruiter -- serving, of course, from his place of business at Tun Tavern.  Prospective recruits flocked to the tavern, lured by (1) cold beer and (2) the opportunity to serve in the new Corps of Marines.  So, yes, the U.S. Marine Corps was indeed born in Tun Tavern.  Needless to say, both the Marine Corps and the tavern thrived during this new relationship.

There is a tradition that the history of the USMC Founding is read to each member of the Corps on this day.  There is also a formal ball held and a large cake is ceremonially brought.  The Oldest and Youngest Marine on each post are present and honored at the ceremony, symbolizing passing of the torch.

This unique holiday for warriors is a day of camaraderie, a day to honor Corps and Country.  Throughout the world on 10 November, U.S. Marines celebrate the birth of their Corps -- the most loyal, most feared, most revered, and most professional fighting force the world has ever known. link

Honor the Marine in your life by wishing him or her Happy Birthday today.  And special thanks and love always to the Marine in my life, my husband Jack.