I so appreciate the posts from those who were not Marines. Birthday greetings from all Marines are expected and respected in a special way.
I celebrated my first Marine Corps Birthday while at Parris Island in the '40s. It would be very difficult to describe the inner thoughts and feelings of Marines regarding "their" birthday.
Have had the privilege and honor of celebrating the Birthday in more climes and places, including the midst of combat, than I care to recall. Every one has been special. It is the social event of the year at every command, worldwide.
Tomorrow, at every Marine command, and I especially think of those in the Arabian Sea, on every ship that has Marines embarked, there will be a cake and a formal celebration. The senior officer present will cut the cake with a saber and present the first and second pieces of cake to the oldest and youngest Marine present. The message from the Commandant will be read and a toast proposed with whatever beverage is at hand (even coffee). It's a wonderful tradition.
God bless the United States of America!
God bless the United States Marines!
God bless every member of the armed services of the United States!
And yes, they have pulled this Army grunt out of a sling before.
Semper Fi!
Thanks!
5.56mm