November 10th and November 11th. What is their significance to the United States?
November 10th, 1775
The United States Marine Corps was formed 249 years ago on November 10, 1775, at Tun Tavern in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The original building no longer exists but a plaque marks the location where Tun Tavern once stood.
Much has transpired over the last 249 years and the Marine Corps has served and continues to serve in locations around the world. Marines have fought in wars and battles from the American Revolution to Afghanistan. Marines are stationed in U.S. embassies, found afloat in Naval ships, and are performing duties at various bases and other locations in the United States and on foreign soil. The Marine Corps has a rich and storied history.
November 11th
The 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, marked the armistice between the allies and Germany during World War I. Until 1954, November 11th was referred to as Armistice Day and primarily recognized the veterans of the First World War.
Following World War II and the Korean War, veteran’s organizations worked hard to change November 11th to a day that recognized all veterans, serving in all branches of the armed forces of the United States. The official change occurred on June 1, 1954.1
Who are they?
Who are these people who served in the Marines, Army, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, the Reserve components, and the National Guard? Most are ordinary citizens who are your friends, relatives, neighbors, and coworkers.
Some were drafted into service while others joined for various reasons including patriotism, a sense of duty, a desire to find direction in their life, college incentives, and the list goes on.
They are men and women who served from two years to thirty years. Some joined the military knowing they would go to war, while others joined during peacetime not knowing if there would be war.
They are men and women who served in combat arms, aviation, shipboard or submarine duty, logistics, administration, and a hundred other jobs.
Ordinary men and women who returned to civilian life, bringing with them training and experiences gained at a young age and now used in a hundred different jobs.
November 10th and 11th
For Marines, November 10th is a day to recognize the birthday of the Corps, honor our traditions, and remember the sacrifices made. For all veterans, November 11th is a day to remember our service to the nation and the commitment we made to protect and defend the Constitution of the United States of America.
Like many of you reading this, I served in the military (USAF & USMC) and my family has served in the military. Thank you for serving your nation. For those who have not served, please consider the sacrifices made to protect and preserve your freedoms.
1History of Veterans Day – Office of Public and Intergovernmental Affairs (va.gov)
