Marine Corps Birthday

Marine Corps Birthday, observed on November 10, honors the founding of the United States Marine Corps and celebrates the courage, discipline, and service of Marines past and present. It is a time to recognize the Corps’ long history of protecting the nation and answering the call to serve around the world.

The occasion is marked by traditions that bring Marines, veterans, families, and supporters together. Ceremonies, formal balls, cake-cutting events, and the retelling of Marine Corps history help preserve a proud sense of heritage while honoring the bonds shared across generations.

The Marine Corps Birthday commemorates the establishment of the United States Marine Corps on November 10, 1775. On that date, the Second Continental Congress authorized the creation of two battalions of Marines during the American Revolutionary War. The resolution directed that the new force be raised to serve aboard Continental Navy vessels and conduct ship-to-ship fighting, amphibious operations, and other military duties. Marines traditionally identify Tun Tavern in Philadelphia as the birthplace of the Corps, although the congressional resolution—not the tavern itself—formally created the organization.

After the Revolution, the Marine Corps was disbanded briefly, then reestablished in 1798 as a permanent component of the federal military establishment. Over the following decades, Marines served in conflicts and operations ranging from the War of 1812 and the Mexican-American War to the Civil War, World Wars I and II, Korea, Vietnam, and later campaigns. As the Corps developed a distinct institutional identity, November 10 became an opportunity not only to mark its founding but also to honor the service and sacrifices of Marines across generations.

The modern birthday observance took shape in the early twentieth century. In 1921, Commandant John A. Lejeune issued a message recalling the Corps’ history and calling on Marines to commemorate its founding. Marine Corps Order No. 47, issued in 1925, further established a formal birthday ceremony. These traditions helped standardize celebrations at Marine posts and units, eventually incorporating historical readings, the Commandant’s birthday message, and the ceremonial cutting of a birthday cake.

Today, the Marine Corps Birthday is observed every year on November 10 through ceremonies, formal balls, unit gatherings, and community events. A senior Marine traditionally cuts the cake and presents the first pieces to the oldest and youngest Marines present, symbolizing the continuity of the Corps and the bond between generations. The observance carries cultural significance beyond an anniversary: it reinforces the values of honor, courage, commitment, service, and loyalty while remembering Marines who served before and recognizing those serving today.