This year’s cake celebrated the 250th anniversary of the Marine Corps.
On November 10, 2025, the Landings Marines gathered to celebrate the 250th Birthday of the Marine Corps. Founded in Philadelphia in 1775, the Corps of Marines was formed even before the U.S. declared its independence from England.
The Marine Corps Birthday is filled with tradition, starting with a special birthday message that is disseminated throughout the world. Gen. Eric M. Smith, Commandant of the Marine Corps, said, “Across centuries, Marines have fought on distant shores and in desperate battles, earning a reputation for discipline, toughness, and valor. From the Revolution to the World Wars … every generation has proven worthy of the title Marine. They secured liberty, defended allies, and carried forward the promise of a free Nation, and a free world. We are the heirs of that legacy, and we are its stewards.
“This anniversary reminds us that our standards are the foundation of our Corps. Honor, Courage, and Commitment are not abstractions, but the code that binds us to one another and to all who went before. Every Marine, in every clime and place, must hold true to these values. The conflicts ahead will demand nothing less.”
One of the traditions that binds Marines across generations is the cutting of a Marine Corps birthday cake. The first piece of cake is cut with a ceremonial sword by the oldest Marine present, who passes the slice to the youngest Marine in attendance. The youngest Marine then takes the first bite of cake. Thomas B. Jones was the oldest present and Chris Lee was the youngest.
There is another tradition at the ceremony. A POW/MIA Table is set with a single place setting on a white tablecloth with a single candle, an inverted glass, one red rose in a vase, and a single chair. The plate contains a small amount of salt and a slice of lemon, elements that are part of the symbolism of the service. This ceremony is designed to remind everyone of the huge sacrifices made to protect the freedoms Americans enjoy. It also reminds us that there are always those who are Prisoners of War or Missing in Action.
Since November 1, 1921, John A. LeJeune, 13th Commandant of the Marine Corps, directed that a reminder of the honorable service of the Corps be published by every command, to all Marines throughout the globe, on the birthday of the Corps. More than a century later, his words remain an important part of the ceremony.
“Generation after generation of Marines have grown gray in war in both hemispheres and in every corner of the seven seas that our country and its citizens might enjoy peace and security.
“Marines will be found equal to every emergency in the future as they have been in the past, and the men of our nations will regard us as worthy successors to the long line of illustrious men who have served as “Soldiers of the Sea” since the founding of the Corps.”
The Landings Marines and their spouses appreciate the opportunity to gather to celebrate and remember their service. More than 30 people enjoyed the dinner with roast turkey provided by Scott Dustin, beef brisket courtesy of Tony Roemer, and barbecued ribs and baked beans brought by Chris Lee. Plenty of appetizers and side dishes to complement the entrees were contributed by the other participants.
Rick Brown and Chris Duca, residents at Ariel but not Marines, brought bottles of wine and fine bourbon for everyone to enjoy after the dinner. Their generosity was acknowledged and appreciated by all.
