Richard and I were kindly invited to a party this evening by our friends, the MacArthurs. The get together was the 241st birthday party of the U.S. Marine Corps. The celebration was held at Villa Mirador, the American Consulate General's residence in Casablanca. We had been to one other get together at this impressive home.
 |
| US and Marine flags, and the cute couple |
 |
| Photo credit V.J.A. |
Each year around this time Marines gather in both small and large groups all over the world to celebrate the birthday of the corps. They also honor those departed, and cement the bond of all Marines. There is a small contingency of U.S. Marines in Casablanca that were present this evening.
 |
| Reading of the history of the Marines |
The cake cutting ceremony started with a reading of the history of the celebration. It also included a showing of a special birthday video from the commandant of the Marine Corps.
 |
The oldest Marine present shaking the hand of the youngest
The first slice of cake was cut by one of the Marines with a long sword. Then the oldest Marine present had the first bite, followed by the youngest getting the second morsel.
|
 |
| Table set to honor those who did not return |
This special table was set to honor those Marines who did not return. An upside down plate, blank dog tags, a photo of an America flag and medal, and a burning candle, were all placed on a black table cloth.
We enjoyed this American patriotic celebration here in Casa, especially the grilled hotdogs and hamburgers; yum!
 |
| Richard and the boys |
 |
| Tickets courtesy of the MacArthur Family |
 |
| The Invitation |
More about the celebrations and a video of the message:
https://www.mca-marines.org/video/241st-marine-corps-birthday-message#
there are not to meany sharper looking
ReplyDeletepeople than a marine in dress blues.
makes you feel proud[like looking at an
American flag].
nice blog.
pappy.