On November 10, 1775, just eight months shy of the Declaration of Independence, a new corps was formed following the introduction of the Continental Marine Act. Having taken part in nearly every U.S. conflict, the Marine Corps has defended our country since America’s inception.
On Sunday, November 7, the Marine Corps League of Elgin invites veterans from all branches of service and the general public to come to the 246th birthday bash.
Commandant Fred Zimmermann of the Elgin Marine Corps League stands with a traditional Marine Corps birthday cake and sword to cut the cake. (Photo provided)
The social begins at 3 p.m., and dinner starts at 5 p.m. The party will be held in Sun City, catered by Jameson’s in Drendel Hall.
John Martinez, a Sun City Marine Corp Veteran, served from 1964 to 1970, has hosted and organized the celebration for the past 18 years.
Martinez said, “We are inviting all veterans and the general public to come to celebrate. The proceeds of this event will go to support the honor flight for all veterans.”
Martinez is the founder of the special interest group called the Sun City Huntley Marines. The group is dedicated to keeping alive the many traditions of the Corps such as hosting the annual birthday ball, enhancing the local recruiting efforts by recognizing recruits, and showing colors at neighborhood events. Martinez said, “We provide the color guard for events such as the Sun City softball game.”.
Tom Culumber, a Sun City Marine Veteran, served from 1963 to 1966. He said, “We are not having a formal ball like Commandant’s Ball, but a memorable birthday party. We have a fabulous basket raffle, a DJ, and a 50-50 raffle.”
The U.S. Marine Corps birthday party honors the history, values, and memory of our heroes who have served and rekindles the bond which unites generations of Marines. The day celebrates traditions of the Marine Corps with profound respect, paying tribute to the heritage of this distinguished service.
Martinez said, “We also will have the traditional cutting of the cake ceremony. That’s where a cake is cut with a sword and the oldest member takes the first bite and passes it down to the youngest.”
Columber said, “This year we are celebrating all branches of service. We are going to have a cake for the other veterans to also participate in the same ceremony of sharing a piece of cake from the oldest to youngest members.”
Only 100 tickets will be available for this event.
The cost is $35 per person. The deadline is November 4, so call today. Please contact John Martinez to purchase tickets at 847-404-1536.
