Happy Birthday, Marines!

231 and still the
few, the proud, the Marines:

Traditionally, the first piece of Birthday cake is presented to the oldest Marine present and the second piece to the youngest Marine present. When and where this tradition began remains unknown. Some records indicate this practice, and others vary it depending on the dignitaries present at the ball. First pieces of cake have been presented to newlyweds, the Secretary of the Navy, governors, and others, but generally speaking, the first pieces of cake go to the oldest and youngest Marines at the ball.

Glad to have served with you and glad you still serve.

Happy Birthday!



LtGen Lewis B. "Chesty" Puller, then a colonel, cuts the Marine Corps birthday cake 10 Nov. 1950, during a brief reprieve in battle during the Korean War. (Official DoD Photo HMSN9806755)