NEW ORLEANS -- Marines from Marine Forces Reserve celebrated the Marine Corps 241st birthday here, Nov. 9, 2016.
To celebrate the birthday, the Marines first held a cake-cutting ceremony and later gathered together for a motivational formation run through the streets of the nearby community.
The cake cutting and motivational run are held annually as a way for Marines and members of the community to celebrate the long-standing traditions and heritage of the Marine Corps.
“This is an important opportunity for the Marines to come together and celebrate,” said Master Gunnery Sgt. Stephen W. Thompson, staff noncommissioned officer in charge of the Installation Personnel Administration Center at Marine Forces Reserve. “It allows the Marines to see where they came from and where they are going.”
Additionally, the celebration reminds Marines of the conflicts and successes that have defined the Marine Corps over 241 years to make it what it is today.
“These traditions have determined who we are and who we have been,” said Mike Flynn, a Marine Corps veteran and native of New Orleans who served as an infantry officer in Vietnam with Kilo Company 3rd battalion 4th Marines, and guest of honor at the celebration. “It is very important for the younger Marines to remember what it is that has gotten us this far because times are not always sweet – they can be difficult.”
As the Marines from MARFRORRES take the time to celebrate the birthday of the Marine Corps today, they reflect and take the lessons learned from the past to stay ready to meet any contingency, and reinforce and support the active component in any time and place.