A little reason to celebrate
Marine Corps Birthday
History · Commemorative · November 10
The Marine Corps Birthday honors the United States Marine Corps, its history of service, and the Marines who carry its traditions forward.
Marine Corps Birthday falls on Tuesday, November 10, 2026. That is 14 days away.
The Marine Corps Birthday marks the founding anniversary of the United States Marine Corps, the branch of the armed forces built to fight on land, at sea and in the air, often moving from ships to shore.
Marines treat the occasion seriously and warmly at once. Units around the world hold birthday balls, formal evenings with dress uniforms, a reading of the Commandant's birthday message, and a cake ceremony. By custom, the first slice of cake goes to the oldest Marine present, who passes it to the youngest. The gesture is simple, and it says a great deal about how the Corps sees itself: experience handing tradition to the next generation.
The Marines carry a strong sense of identity. Their motto, Semper Fidelis, means "always faithful" in Latin, and many Marines shorten it to "Semper Fi" as a greeting among themselves. The emblem of eagle, globe and anchor appears on uniforms, flags and countless bumper stickers, a sign of how long that loyalty lasts after someone leaves active service.
For people outside the Corps, the day is a chance to recognize Marines they know, past and present. A call to a veteran in the family, a visit to a local event hosted by a Marine Corps League detachment, or a few minutes reading about the branch's history all fit the spirit of it.
Many Marines say that once you earn the title, you keep it for life. That is why the cake gets cut at gatherings of retirees as well as at bases.
Ways to celebrate
- Call or write to a Marine or Marine veteran you know.
- Display an American flag or the Marine Corps flag.
- Attend a local Marine Corps League event or birthday gathering.
- Read about a notable chapter in Marine Corps history.
- Learn what Semper Fidelis means and why Marines use it.
Dates
| Year | Date |
|---|---|
| 2026 | Tuesday, November 10 |
| 2027 | Wednesday, November 10 |
| 2028 | Friday, November 10 |
| 2029 | Saturday, November 10 |
| 2030 | Sunday, November 10 |
All national days on November 10
Also on November 10
Categories: History daysCommemorative days