Every November 10, Marines around the world pause, wherever they are serving, to mark the birthday of the United States Marine Corps. The celebration dates back to 1775, before the United States had even declared independence. From formal birthday balls to a simple cake shared on a ship or a remote base, the day is one of the most cherished traditions in the U.S. military. For civilians, it's a chance to thank the Marines in their lives and learn about the Corps' long history.
History of U.S. Marine Corps Birthday
On November 10, 1775, the Second Continental Congress passed a resolution calling for two battalions of Marines to serve during the Revolutionary War. These Continental Marines fought on land and at sea. According to tradition, early recruiting took place at Tun Tavern in Philadelphia, which is why the tavern is often called the birthplace of the Marine Corps.
After the war, the Continental Marines were disbanded, and the Marine Corps was formally re-established in 1798. For many years, the Corps marked its birthday on July 11, the 1798 date.
In 1921, Major General Commandant John A. Lejeune issued Marine Corps Order No. 47, which summarised the Corps' history and directed that it be read to every command on November 10. That order fixed November 10 as the official birthday. Formal birthday balls became common in the 1920s and 1930s.
The cake-cutting ceremony has its own customs: the first slice traditionally goes to the guest of honor, and the next is passed from the oldest Marine present to the youngest, symbolising the passing of experience to a new generation.
Why U.S. Marine Corps Birthday Matters
The Marine Corps birthday connects every generation of Marines, from veterans of past wars to new recruits. Its traditions emphasize continuity, sacrifice and pride.
For families and communities, the day is also an occasion to recognize the service of Marines, many of whom spend this date far from home. It falls the day before Veterans Day, making the week a natural time to honor military service.
How to Celebrate U.S. Marine Corps Birthday
- Say thank you: reach out to a Marine or Marine veteran you know.
- Attend or watch a ceremony: many local Marine Corps League chapters host birthday events.
- Learn the history: read the Commandant's annual birthday message or Order No. 47.
- Support Marine families: donate to a reputable charity that helps service members and their families.
- Share a cake: host a small gathering and follow the oldest-to-youngest slice tradition.
Celebrating at Work, School and Home
At work, recognize any Marines or Marine veterans on your team with a short message or a shared cake at lunch, keeping it low-key if they prefer. Schools can invite a local Marine Corps League member to speak about service, or study the Revolutionary War origins of the Corps. Communities often host birthday balls, flag ceremonies or fundraising events in the days around November 10. At home, families with Marine connections can keep their own traditions, from reading the Commandant's birthday message to calling relatives who served. Because the Marine Corps Birthday is the day before Veterans Day, many people combine the two into a week of honoring military service.
Fun Facts About U.S. Marine Corps Birthday
- The Continental Congress created the Continental Marines on November 10, 1775.
- Tun Tavern in Philadelphia is traditionally considered the Corps' birthplace.
- Commandant Lejeune's 1921 order made November 10 the official birthday.
U.S. Marine Corps Birthday FAQs
When is the Marine Corps Birthday?
It is celebrated every year on November 10.
How old is the Marine Corps?
The Corps dates its founding to November 10, 1775.
What happens at a Marine Corps birthday ball?
Events include reading Lejeune's birthday message and the Commandant's message, a cake-cutting ceremony, and a formal dinner and dance.
What is the Marine Corps motto?
The motto is 'Semper Fidelis', Latin for 'always faithful', often shortened to 'Semper Fi'.