Readiness

Pfc. Alec J. Page, the youngest Marine present at the Marine Forces Reserve birthday ball, and Gunnery Sgt. (retired) Robert L. Allen, oldest Marine present, pose for a photo at the 242nd Marine Corps birthday ball hosted by Marine Forces on Nov. 3, 2017. It is a tradition for the first piece of cake to be given to the oldest Marine present and the passed to the youngest Marine present at every Marine Corps ball, symbolizing the passing of experience and knowledge to the new generation. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Issac Velasquez/released)