The month of November remains one of the most important months to Marines - even beats out personal birthdays (as far as I am concerned). It should not, however, beat out spouses or children (grandchildren) birthdays. I don't believe that there is a Marine in the Detachment who cannot remember their first time celebrating the Marine Corps Birthday (and probably many after that experience).
The first time I attended a Marine Corps Birthday Ball was in November 1949 at Camp Lejeune. Since that time I have attended Marine Corps Birthdays every year I was in the Corps and many after I retired. The most remember-able was in 1953 at Quantico. This was the year that I met my wife, Okalene. I asked her to marry me after the next ten days traveling back and forth from Quantico to Washington, D. C. (And I didn't even own an automobile at that time).
From all reports I have read and heard this year's Marine Corps Ball will rank right up with the best one at St George. (And may be the first one where the Detachment will break even financially.) All tickets have been sold. Each member of the Birthday Ball Committee has contributed their expertise and experience to ensure that all who attend will have the "Ball of their life." The big surprise to all will be who has been selected as the oldest and youngest Marine (of record) to share the Birthday Cake honors.
We are mindful, however, that November contains other significant events e.g., Veterans Day, on November 11th where the Detachment will have the opportunity to join other military units at SunRiver and participate in honoring those who have served our nation. There also will be commemorations of two significant events in American history: November 19th will mark 150 years since President Abraham Lincoln delivered his now famous Address at Gettysburg, Penn, and November 22 the nation will commemorate 50 years since President John Kennedy was lost to an assassin's bullet.
I would be remiss if I didn't mention November 28th Thanksgiving Day. A day where the traditional "Turkey" is shared and a time to reflect on all the blessings that we have experienced with our families and friends. Let us not forget those that are in need locally and provide what we can to the Dixie Share and Care (628-3661).
D'Arcy Grisier, Commandant
