Andy Benjock and Howard Whittker show the cakes
Coincidental to our meeting on 10 November was the 241st birthday of the USMC. Our assembled members, led by Master Gunnery Sergeant Andy Benjock, USMC (Ret.) celebrated in a grand fashion. First, Ben read Gen. Lejeune’s order summarizing the history, mission, and tradition of the Corps. It further directed that the order be read to all Marines on 10 November of each year to honor the founding of the Marine Corps. Thereafter, 10 November became a unique day for U.S. Marines throughout the world. Next, Chaplain Bill Thompson who served as a Navy Chaplain with the Marines at Khe Sahn, read a prayer that was apparently written by a Marine fresh from combat. It was very moving. In true Marine fashion we also had two birthday cakes ready to consume by all those present. Ben recited the solemn statement that is done when the birthday cake is cut and then the oldest and then the youngest Marine present were served the first pieces of cake. Happy Birthday to the the United States Marine Corps.
