United States Marine Corps celebrate their 241st birthday

Marine Corps from all over the world celebrated their 241st birthday today.

Two hundred and forty one years ago, the Marine Corps was created when the 2nd Continental Congress passed a resolution that two battalions be formed as a service branch of infantry troops capable of fighting for Independence both at sea and shore. Earlier today, active and retired members and family members from the community came together to commemorate the celebration at the Marine Corps Air Station here in Yuma. Public Affairs Director, Captain Jose Negrete, says this is an event he looks forward to every year, because of the support from the community.

“Yuma is a city of retirees. We have probably the strongest support in this city than anywhere else I been in the Marine Corp. I been in the Marine Corp for seventeen years and I’ve never seen the support I’ve seen here in Yuma.” Negrete says.

The ceremony feautred a cake-cutting ceremony and a historical uniform pageant. The cake is the best part, but it’s also a tradition. The first and second piece of cake is presented to the oldest and youngest marine to signify the passing of traditions from one generation to the next.