On November 10 each year, Marines around the globe gather to celebrate their birthday through cherished traditions such as cutting cakes with Mameluke swords and listening to the reading of a historic order that dates back nearly a century. This birthday celebration is not just a festive occasion; it is a crucial part of the Marine Corps’ identity, established during a tumultuous period when the Corps faced existential threats.
When Major General John A. Lejeune took command of the Marine Corps in 1920, the organization was navigating significant challenges. Having gained national fame for its bravery at Belleau Wood during World War I, the Marine Corps found itself under scrutiny as America pushed for disarmament and military downsizing. Congressional debates raised doubts about the need for a separate amphibious force, leading to concerns about the Corps’ future existence amidst proposals to merge it into the Army or Navy.
In the face of these challenges, Lejeune recognized that the Corps needed a robust identity that could withstand political fluctuations and protect its funding. To accomplish this, he looked back to the Corps’ storied history and sought to formalize a celebration that would connect modern Marines with their predecessors.
A pivotal moment occurred in 1921 when Major Edwin McClellan, heading the Corps’ historical section, suggested moving the official birthday to November 10, commemorating the date in 1775 when the Second Continental Congress approved the creation of two battalions of Marines. Lejeune endorsed this idea and issued Marine Corps Order No. 47, which mandated that a birthday message be recited annually on this date, thus establishing a tradition of celebration.
The first formal Birthday Ball took place in Philadelphia in 1925, featuring notable figures such as Lejeune himself and prominent political and military leaders. The event included a parade and an unveiling of a memorial tablet at the historical site of Tun Tavern, where the first Marines were recruited. This marked the beginning of a grand celebration that evolved significantly over the decades.
The now-famous cake-cutting tradition began to take shape, with the first documented ceremony occurring in 1937 at Marine Barracks Washington. This ritual, which has become central to the festivities, involves cutting the cake with a Mameluke sword, a nod to the Corps’ history. The first slice is presented to the guest of honor, followed by another slice handed from the oldest Marine present to the youngest, symbolizing the unity and continuity of the Marine Corps.
Lejeune’s efforts to create a mandatory birthday celebration served as a tactical survival mechanism during a time of scrutiny and budget cuts. These annual celebrations not only fostered pride within the ranks but also enhanced public visibility. They reminded citizens and congressional leaders of the Corps’ importance and unique purpose beyond mere battlefield performance.
In recent years, the Marine Corps has embraced additional traditions to commemorate this special day, such as motivational runs and displays of historical uniforms. Just ahead of the 250th birthday celebration in 2025, the traditions initially established by Lejeune remain firmly ingrained within the fabric of the Marine Corps, continuing to inspire camaraderie and pride among the ranks.
As the Marine Corps approaches this significant milestone, it stands as a testament to Lejeune’s foresight and dedication. The birthday celebrations today not only commemorate the history and contributions of the Marines but also reflect their enduring legacy as an integral part of America’s military and national identity. The spirit of the Marine Corps thrives, enriched by traditions that connect generations of Marines and promote a sense of unity and purpose.