Community members, civilians and area school Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps programs were invited to Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany for the historical uniform pageant and birthday cake-cutting ceremony to celebrate the Marine Corps’ 249th birthday, Nov. 8. 

The historic uniform pageant allows Marines to connect to history and showcase those who have gone before, as well as the past and present uniforms of those who fought and are currently fighting in defense of our nation around the world. 

“Our witness bears witness to Marines of all stripes picking up their rifles and fighting for Corps and Country when the call came. From Wake Island to the Chosin Reservoir to Khe Sanh to Camp Bastion, every Marine fought. Our future battles will be no different. Our rear areas will be as vulnerable as our front lines and every Marine from our infantry battalions to our aviation squadrons to our headquarters and support elements will have to stand-to when called,” says General Eric Smith, commandant of the Marine Corps, U.S. Marine Corps. 

“For every Marine across the globe celebrating the birthday, whether you have two Marines or 2,000 Marines, it’s a special day and all Marines remember that day, no matter how long they live,” says Col. Matthew McKinney, commanding officer, MCLB Albany. 

The birthday cake is traditionally cut with the Mameluke sword. The first piece of cake is given to the Guest of Honor. Traditionally, the second piece is given to the oldest Marine, then handing the third piece to the youngest Marine signifying the passing of experience and knowledge from the old to the young of our Corps. 

In attendance Friday were JROTC cadets from schools in Dougherty and Colquitt County. “I’m hopeful that by bringing the junior Marines here, and our younger high school students, that they’ll get to see what it’s like to be a Marine, they get to see actual Marines and talk to them and we’re hopeful that one day they’ll choose to join our ranks,” say McKinney.