USMC celebrates 240th Birthday with Ball Published Nov. 17, 2015 By Airman 1st Class Caelynn Ferguson 17th Training Wing Public Affairs SAN ANGELO, Texas -- The United States Marine Corps Detachment celebrated the Marine Corps’ 240th Birthday during the USMC Ball at the McNease Convention Center Nov. 14. The ball began with a social hour, where Marines could sign up for portraits, find their seats and socialize before the ceremonies began. After invocation, the Marines held a series of ceremonies including the Prisoners of War and Missing in Action table ceremony and the entrance of the cordon and the official party. A video featuring General Robert B. Neller, Commandant of the Marine Corps, played to give the 240th U.S. Marine Corps Birthday message. “As we celebrate the 240th birthday of our Corps, we pay tribute to all who have served and we remember our fallen heroes,” said Neller. “Thank you all for guarding the legacy of our Corps during your watch.” Maj. Andrew H. Armstrong, Marine Corps Detachment Commanding Officer, along with the guest of honor, Retired Sgt. Maj. Christopher G. Combs entered as the official party. The colors were presented with the National Anthem and later the Marines’ Hymn. General John A. Lejeune, 13th Commandant of the Marine Corps, directed that Article 38, United States Marine Corps Manual, be republished on the birthday of the Corps. “In every battle and skirmish since the birth of our corps, Marines have acquitted themselves with the greatest distinction, winning new honors on each occasion until the term Marine has come to signify all that is highest in military efficiency and soldierly virtue.” The guest of honor, U.S. Marine Corps Retired Sgt. Maj. Christopher G. Combs cut the Marine Corps birthday cake and the oldest and youngest Marines received the first pieces of cake. The oldest Marine, Master Gunnery Sgt. Jamie R. Close, served cake to the youngest Marine, Pvt. Austin N. Morris. Soon after the colors and official party retired, Armstrong gave a few remarks. “As we celebrate this 240th Marine Corps Ball, I can’t help but reflect on the truly impressive efforts of the instructors, staff and support personnel assigned to the Marine Corps Detachment at Goodfellow,” said Armstrong. Combs gave a short speech about the legacy of the Marine Corps and how it molded him. “Spend a little time everyday making sure you have people that can replace you,” said Combs. “Never say I, unless you’re talking about a mistake. Give credit to others in all accomplishments by saying we. Take responsibility for your mistakes by saying I. If you’re not teaching, you’re not leading.” The ceremony concluded at the end of the guest of honor’s speech, signaling the time for dinner, dancing and entertainment.
