232nd United States Marine Corps Birthday - OORAH!

Our Marine Corps Celebration has been on going now for several days...

Nov 8th, we had the official cake cutting ceremony. This is symbolic for us as we honor the oldest Marine in the unit passing the traditions and the legacy of our beloved Corps down to the youngest Marine with a piece of birthday cake. We also take the time to read our 13th Commandant General Lejeune's birthday message and the current Commandant's birthday message. This year since we are celebrating in a combat zone we honor all of our Fallen Comrades. This is always and emotional time for Marines, but being out here doing what Marines do best, it really makes it hit home a little harder.

Marcus was privileged to be the narrator for the event, he did an amazing job!!

Nov 9th, we had a SNCO / Officer Mess Night. This is a traditional event where Marines of certain ranks get together to poke fun at each other and toast the Marines of the past and present. The Marines get to charge fines for certain dollar amounts for doing or saying funny things in the past. We had a very funny skit making fun of some of the leadership in the command. We had barbecued steaks, good food, and good company.

Nov 10th, This day is the actual birthday of the Marine Corps. This is a day for us all to celebrate our heritage and honor all those that have come before us. The big thing for this year was the great dinner (feast) they served us at the chow hall. They served us steak and lobster with a great selection of side dishes. There were several large birthday cakes. They made them in the shapes of the Iwojima Monument, the Eagle, Globe, and Anchor, and traditional birthday cake. The highlight for most Marines was that they actually served two beers per Marine. This is a huge deal for Marines...this is a dry zone, so this was a real treat for those who have been here for a while.

All in all it has been a fun filled few days. Something to really make the time go by and break up the day to day routine. We hope you are all doing well. We thank you for all of your support, prayers, and emails. Please keep them coming especially through the holidays, we have each other, but it is still hard to be so far away from those we love and care for so much!