The holidays are fast approaching, and it’s time to start thinking about what gifts to give your military friends, family members who serve, and/or fellow unit members. One popular and meaningful option is a military challenge coin.

While these coins are ordinarily presented by senior military personnel to recognize the work of a uniformed service member or civilian, they can also be given as personal mementos to mark something special between the gift giver and the recipient. Challenge coins hold a special place in the heart of many service members, and they are often cherished for years.

The history of military challenge coins is a bit murky, like many things in the military. There really isn’t an identifiable historical moment when military challenge coins first got used. There are tales from World War I and also tales that come from the Vietnam War, but nothing is really concrete. For those who came up in the ranks during the Cold War, military challenge coins weren’t really a thing, at least not like they are now where it seems like every team, at every level, has a coin.

Given the lack of factual information pertaining to the history of military challenge coins, this post won’t focus on challenge coin history. Instead, it will focus on providing guidance on which coins are the best military challenge coins to give as gifts.

Best Military Challenge Coins to Give as Keepsakes

There are many moments when giving someone a keepsake military challenge coin would be appropriate. Maybe they got promoted, finished a training program (Airborne training, for example), earned a degree or achieved something else professionally. Giving them a coin as a gift is no different than buying them something to mark their achievement. It helps mark the occasion and let them know that you’re proud of them for what they’ve done.

You can give a military service specific coin to a recent basic training or officer candidate school graduate to mark the start of their military journey. It doesn’t matter if they end up spending four years or 24 years in, the coin will serve as a reminder of the start of their journey. The coin is a reminder of what they accomplished and that’s because military challenge coins are a tangible representation of an accomplishment.

These can be the best military challenge coins to give as keepsakes if they are service specific, or maybe show the military occupational series, like Military Police, Engineers, or Infantry. Remember, keepsake military challenge coins are just one of the three types of the best military challenge coins to give. What matters is the event that is being marked and what the coin represents.

Best Military Challenge Coins to Give to Build Camaraderie

Military challenge coins are more than just trinkets; they are an essential part of military tradition and they help build morale and camaraderie when used at the team or unit level. If you are in a position as a military supervisor or even an unofficial leader, giving a challenge coin as a holiday gift means that you care and respect the dedication to duty of your fellow service members. If you ask us, these are the best military challenge coins to give because you are recognizing the hard work and dedication of your troops.

Challenge coins promote esprit de corps and a sense of unity among service members. Receiving one or giving one will certainly help the unit’s climate and help build cohesion in the unit or team. A challenge coin is a nice, “atta boy” to let people know you appreciate the work they do when recommending them for a decoration doesn’t fit the scope of recognition.

These days, military challenge coins are funded at higher levels of command, but great leaders at lower levels will often circle wagons and pool their money to ensure they have military challenge coins on hand to recognize those that go above and beyond routinely. These are the best military challenge coins to give.

Best Military Challenge Coins for Commemorating Unit-Related Activities

Branch-specific coins are the best military challenge coins to give out when recognizing something a service member did that brings credit to their branch of service. For example, if a service member has done some volunteer work in the community, but falls short of the criteria to earn the Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal, then a coin might be the best military challenge coins to give them.

Selecting a military challenge coin that represents the recipient's branch of service (e.g., Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Space Force, or Coast Guard) shouldn’t be too hard and there are plenty of choices out there especially at USAMM. Just ensure you buy from a reputable company that uses the service’s insignia properly, with permission, and that the attention to detail in creating the coin is evident. A coin was once sold online by a sketchy retailer that had the Coast Guard motto engraved on an Air Force Pararescue coin. You should know what you’re buying.

One of the best military challenge coins you can buy is a custom coin. You can create a custom challenge coin that can include specific details such as the recipient's name, rank, unit insignia, etc. This adds a personal touch and unforgettable gift for anyone in the military and you can add specific military occupations such as pilots, special forces, or transportation. Choose a coin that best represents the recipient’s role in the military and remember you have two sides on a coin to work with.

The Perfect Time to Shop

Give the gift of pride, honor, and recognition this holiday season with a military challenge coin. These coins are not only beautiful but also deeply meaningful to those who serve. With a variety of options to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect coin to celebrate your loved one's service. But don't wait. The holidays are right around the corner. Shop now and make this year’s gift one they will cherish for a lifetime.

And don’t forget, you can also purchase high-quality coin display cases to accompany the gift of a coin.

As military personnel, service members deserve our utmost gratitude and appreciation for their unwavering dedication to serving our country. Naturally if you have a relative or friend who serves, you will readily agree with that statement. But if you are not connected to the military in any way, you can still do kind things for our service personnel who sacrifice so much while they serve.

With that said, what better way to show our appreciation during the Halloween season than to send them a thoughtful care package with lots of treats and gifts? Whether your loved one is stationed overseas or stateside on active duty, a care package filled with fun and festive Halloween treats and gifts is sure to bring a smile to their face. In this post, we’ll share some creative ideas to help you put together a thoughtful Halloween care package for the service members in your life.

Halloween Care Package Ideas for Service Members Overseas

Thinking about sending some yummy treats overseas? Might be a good idea to think again. While there is a good likelihood that the food will arrive intact with no problems, there is also a chance that the food will melt or get broken apart while in transit.

Not to mention, most deployment areas have well-stocked post exchanges and service personnel have access to plenty of treats. So instead of risking it with yummies, save yourself the work and the possible heartache by sending festive decorations that are Halloween-themed. Perhaps a string of pumpkin lights, a haunted house banner, or some fake spiderwebs can bring the spirit of Halloween to your service member’s barracks or home. It’s a great way to make their surroundings feel more festive and special.

Some might also enjoy some service-related gifts like hats or t-shirts that they can wear in their off duty time. 

Halloween Care Package Ideas for Service Members Stateside

Shipping to service members who are in the states is not only faster, but safer. Not to mention, you have a variety of choices in shippers while if you are sending something overseas, normally you can ship only using the U.S. Postal Service. That said, if you want to get some home baked or other special treats to someone you love in uniform, overnight, you can do that pretty easily and without any real threat of things melting (unless you are shipping regular mail that might take a few days).

Show your love and appreciation by baking some homemade treats to include in the care package. A batch of Halloween sugar cookies or some homemade pumpkin bread would be greatly appreciated by your service member. Not only is this a sentimental gesture, but it’s also a cost-effective way to add a personal touch to your care package.

If you opt to send something to your service member who is stateside, no Halloween would be complete without an abundance of candy and other treats. In your care package, include some traditional Halloween candy like candy corn, pumpkin-shaped treats, or some assorted goodies. Chocolate is great, but use caution because if you are shipping standard and the package is going to a southern state, they might get a melted mess upon arrival. Exercise common sense.

You can also add some seasonal favorites like pumpkin spice seeds or caramel apples. Try to include a mix of sweet and savory snacks so that your service member has something to look forward to during work breaks.

And don't forget to think about military gifts that they might enjoy. Customizable products make great gifts in care packages and folks can always use mugs, cups, and other items while deployed or overseas.

Halloween Care Package Ideas for Service Members Overseas or Stateside

Service members may experience periods of downtime on deployment or work breaks, which can lead to boredom. Including a Halloween-themed activity book like a crossword puzzle, word search, or a coloring book can help keep them entertained. These activity books are easy to pack and can be shared with other service members, providing hours of fun.

Many young adults find coloring books relaxing, but just remember, if you are sending coloring books to Marines, ensure you include lots of crayons (just kidding, we love you Marines).

A lightweight item you can include in any care package is a gift card. Service personnel can always use them to purchase whatever they want, whenever they want. 

Personalizing Halloween Care Package Ideas for Service Members

Lastly, don't forget to add some personal touches to your care package, such as a handwritten note or photos of you, family, and pets. These personal items can provide a lot of comfort and support to the service members who may be homesick or missing loved ones. They are sure to cherish them and think of you when they see them.

That said, just because it is Halloween, don't hesitate to include necessary items your service member might be longing for like a hydration system or a knife. Maybe they had those items when they deployed and they lost them, or maybe they weren't issued those upon deploying. Whatever the reason, personalizing a care package is a win-win.

Miscellaneous Tips for Halloween Care Package Ideas for Service Members

It is never too early to ship anything. As we transition to fall, delivery and shipping companies get busy as people get a jump on early holiday sales. Remember, unless you are shipping something over night or to arrive in 48 hours, the package will need transit time. So buy it, bake it, pack it up and send it as soon as you can.

If you prefer to order items from online retailers like USAMM and then have the items shipped directly to the service member, be sure to allow time for order fulfilment and delivery. And check to ensure that the retailer will deliver overseas.

Halloween Care Package Ideas for Service Members in Units

It is much easier to target your service member and send them a Halloween care package, but if you enlist the help of some local organizations, you can likely provide care packages to the entire unit by applying a little organizational skill.

There are plenty of civic, religious, and service organizations that would be more than happy to not only contribute donations and financial support, but also manpower so, do not be afraid to reach out to local organizations and ask for help. Youth organizations are always on the hunt for community service projects as are civic organizations.

Also, if you are not affiliated with a service member, reach out to the many organizations that work to support the military and see how you can help. Reaching out to local military units, recruiters, reserve and National Guard units might also be useful in helping you connect with troops who are deployed.

In summary, a Halloween care package is a thoughtful way to show our appreciation to the military personnel who sacrifice so much for us. Whether you are sending the care package to your spouse, friend, or family member, by including festive decorations, sweets, activity books, homemade treats, and personal touches, you can bring a little bit of home to their military assignment or deployment. So go ahead, put together a care package for your service member today, and make their Halloween special. It will bring out the kid in them.

Introduction

When it comes to the United States Marine Corps, many people have questions. Mostly it is because the Marine Corps is a small, adaptable force capable of projecting combat power with little notice pretty much anywhere on earth. Many of us look from afar and we know that their training is difficult and challenging, but we truly don’t know what it is like to be a Marine, unless we’ve been Marines.

Civilians and in many cases fellow service members do not fully understand how the Marine Corps is structured and how the Marines fit into the national strategic military plan. Many people have questions and one of the most frequently asked by military personnel is: How many divisions are in the Marine Corps? It's understandable that people are curious about this, especially those in the U.S. Army who are accustomed to understanding a force constructed in divisions.

In this blog post, we'll delve into the answer to this question. We'll also look at other important aspects of the Marine Corps that you might find interesting.

The Marine Corps is an essential component of the United States military. It's a branch of the military that operates on land and sea. Currently, there are four divisions in the Marine Corps, and each division operates under a different mission.

The First Marine Division is based in Camp Pendleton, California, and its mission is to provide ground combat troops for the Marine Expeditionary Force (MEF). The Second Maine Division is based in Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, and its primary mission is to provide infantry, artillery, and armor support for the MEF. The Third Marine Division is based in Okinawa, Japan, and its mission is to provide support for the MEF in the Indo-Pacific region. The Fourth Marine Division is a reserve division for the United States Marine Corps.

While there several divisions in the Marine Corps, there are also other commands and units that exist. For example, there are Marine Expeditionary Units (MEUs) that are composed of a small command element, a ground combat element, an aviation combat element, and a logistical combat element. There are also Marine Raider Battalions, which are specialized units that conduct unconventional warfare and special operations. Additionally, there are Marine Logistics Groups, which provide supply, maintenance, and transportation support for Marine Corps units worldwide.

Another interesting fact about the Marine Corps is that it's the smallest branch of the U.S. military. Despite its small size, the Marine Corps has a long and proud history of service to the country. Marines are known for their toughness, discipline, and commitment to service. It's a branch of the military that has been involved in some of the most challenging and dangerous missions in our nation’s history.

1st Marine Division

The 1st Marine Division is a multi-role, expeditionary ground combat force. The Division is employed as the ground combat element of I Marine Expeditionary Force or may provide task-organized forces for assault operations and such operations as may be directed. The 1st Marine Division provides amphibious forcible entry capability to the naval expeditionary force and conducts subsequent land operations in any environment.

The Division provides fully trained units and personnel in support of Marine Rotational Force - Darwin, Marine Expeditionary Units, and the Unit Deployment Program to Okinawa, Japan. Marines that serve in this division are known as Blue Diamond Marines because of their unit insignia.

However, in order to answer the question how many divisions are in the Marine Corps, we have to share information about the other Marine divisions.

2nd Marine Division

The mission of the 2nd Marine Division is to generate, train, and certify forces in order to conduct expeditionary operations in support of II Marine Expeditionary Force campaign objectives and crisis response tasking. On order, the division will plan and execute division-level ground combat element operations as part of a Marine Air-Ground Task Force or Naval Expeditionary Force.

How many divisions are in the Marine Corps is still a question that can’t be answered unless we talk about the remaining divisions.

3rd Marine Division

The 3rd Marine Division operates as a Stand-In Force in the first island chain to secure, seize, or defend key maritime terrain in order to deny and disrupt adversary actions in support of the fleet, the Joint Force, and partnered and allied forces. The division has five major subordinate elements: 3rd Marine Littoral Regiment based in Hawaii and 12th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion, and Headquarters Battalion based in Okinawa, Japan.

How many divisions are in the Marine Corps? If you are referring to active duty, there are three divisions, but technically since Marine Forces Reserve is a part of the Marine Corps, even though it is a reserve component, the more accurate answer is that there are four divisions in the Marine Corps.

4th Marine Division

To finally answer the question of how many divisions are in the Marine Corps we have to discuss the 4th Marine Division. The mission of the 4th Marine Division is to provide trained combat and combat support personnel and units to augment and reinforce the active component in time of war, national emergency, and at other times as national security requires; and have the capability to reconstitute the Division, if required.

The answer to the question how many divisions are in the Marine Corps is simple. Four. Three are active-duty divisions and one is a reserve division.

Conclusion

The Marine Corps is a highly specialized and disciplined branch of the military that has a specific mission and purpose. Whether you're a Marine, veteran, or someone who is interested in the military, it's important to understand the role and importance of the Marine Corps. It's a branch of the military that has contributed greatly to the safety and security of our nation, and we should all be proud of the bravery and dedication of the men and women who serve in it.

Benefits of Joining the Marines (Introduction)

The United States Marine Corps is known for their motto Semper Fidelis, which means always faithful. Those who have served or are currently serving know that the phrase represents the brotherhood/sisterhood and bond among Marines. However, not everyone is aware of the other benefits that come with joining the Marines.

If you are thinking about joining the Marine Corps, read on. This is USAMM’s top five benefits of joining the Marines. This blog post will explore the benefits of joining the Marines and why it’s a great decision for high school graduates, college graduates, and veterans to consider joining America’s beloved Corps.

Benefits of Joining the Marines (#1 Personal Growth)

First, joining the Marines offers the opportunity for personal growth and leadership development. As a Marine, you’ll be part of an organization that values leadership and self-discipline. These qualities are important for not only advancing in the Marines but also in civilian life. You’ll have the chance to attend leadership schools like Corporals Course, Sergeants Course, and Officer Candidate School. Marines learn to lead by example and learn how to take on challenging situations with confidence.

Not to mention, have you ever seen an out of shape Marine? Not really, so if you want to get into incredible physical condition, physical training is also one of the many benefits of joining the Marines.

Benefits of Joining the Marines (#2 Travel, travel, and then travel some more)

Second, you’ll have the chance to travel and experience different cultures. The Marine Corps has bases all around the world, and Marines are also on some U.S. Navy ships, so you’ll have an opportunity to live in other countries and experience diverse cultures. Did we mention that Marines also guard U.S. embassies all over the world? Serving as a Marine affords you the opportunity to see the world. This can be beneficial for a high school graduate or college graduate who hasn’t yet had the chance to travel or experience different cultures.

Traveling on Uncle Sam’s dime is a lot better than paying for it on your own. Not to mention, in many cases, when Marines travel overseas they do so for an extended period of time and not just a few days or a week like most vacations.

Benefits of Joining the Marines (#3 A Steady Paycheck)

Third, joining the Marines can offer financial stability. You’ll have a steady paycheck, healthcare, and many other benefits like the GI Bill, which provides money for tuition, books, and housing for veterans who’ve served on active duty for several years. The GI Bill is an excellent opportunity for high school graduates who want to further their education but don’t have the financial means to do so. The Marine Corps values education, and there are also programs like the Marine Corps Credentialing Opportunities On-Line (COOL), which helps active-duty Marines earn credentials in their military occupational specialty (MOS).

Granted, you will likely not become a millionaire while serving in the Corps, but you will undoubtedly make more money than an entry-level job as a civilian with no skills. Oh yeah, and you will likely learn skills that you can use throughout your life.

Benefits of Joining the Marines (#4 Sense of Purpose)

Fourth, the Marine Corps offers a sense of purpose. It’s not just about having a job; being a Marine is about serving your country and being part of a group of individuals who are making a difference. The Marines are known for their bravery, honor, and commitment to their fellow Marines and country. For those who are looking for more than just a career, joining the Marines can provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment.

For example, most have likely read about the raising of the flag on Mount Surabachi, but if you were a Marine on that island, you would have been a part of that historical event. Some people make history, others read about it.

Benefits of Joining the Marines (#5 You Earn the Title)

Finally, joining the Marines means being part of a brotherhood/sisterhood. The bonds formed among Marines are unlike any other. You’ll gain lifelong friendships and be part of a family who shares a common experience. It’s more than just a job; it’s a community, and the support system is incredible. No matter where you go in the world, you’ll always have a fellow Marine by your side.

Marines are a tight-knit group because their training is considered the hardest of all the military branches. In addition, because they are smaller than the other branches, they take pride in being The Few, The Proud.

Benefits of Joining the Marines (Conclusion)

In conclusion, joining the Marines offers more than just a job. It’s an opportunity for personal growth, travel, financial stability, sense of purpose, and brotherhood/sisterhood. If you’re a high school graduate, college graduate, or veteran, it’s worth considering the benefits of joining the Marines. Whether you’re looking for a career or a sense of purpose, the Marines offer both. It’s a decision that will change your life, and the bonds formed among Marines are ones that will last a lifetime. But be ready.

And while there are ample cases of Marines joining other branches of service after their time in the Corps was done, there are few cases of veterans from other branches joining the Marines. Physical and emotional preparation is the key and remembering that you are no longer a part of another branch will help you become a Marine.

Marine Corps Officer Ranks (Introduction)

The United States Marine Corps is known for its rigorous training and high standard of discipline, producing some of the finest officers in the military. With a structure built around a strong system of rank and authority, it is important for Marines, veterans, and military members alike to understand the various officer ranks and their responsibilities. In this blog post, we will provide a comprehensive guide to the Marine Corps officer ranks. For the sake of brevity, we will focus only on commissioned officers and we did not include warrant officers or non-commissioned officers.

Marine Corps Officer Ranks (Junior/Company-grade officers)

Although they are sometimes referred to as junior officers, don’t be fooled. Second Lieutenants, First Lieutenants, and Captains have important responsibilities in most cases as they comprise the core leadership at the company level. They are often charged with carrying out the directives of higher-ranking officers in their chain of command and enforcing Marine Corps standards. They serve as sub-team company leaders in platoons and as the leadership staff of a company which is why they are referred to as company-grade officers.

The first officer rank, the lowest rank in the officer ranks in the Marine Corps is that of Second Lieutenant. Many “butter bars” serve initially as platoon commanders or small team leaders, hopefully following the sage advice of venerated non-commissioned officers who normally have considerable operational experience than their professionally and biologically younger Marine second lieutenants. These NCOs are critical in the development of young officers and they help transform them into strong Marine leaders. They are informally and unofficially called butter bars because their rank insignia looks like a stick of butter.

The second officer rank is First Lieutenant. First lieutenants, or “Lieutenants” as they are referred to, often serve as company executive officers or like second lieutenants, platoon commanders. They are responsible for implementing and executing the orders of their commanding officers. They also provide leadership to their subordinates and ensure the mission is carried out. Their rank insignia looks like a silver stick of butter.

The final rank in the company grade officer ranks is Captain. Some argue that next to warrant officers that this is the best rank in the Marine Corps. Captains ordinarily are company commanders or staff officers. They lead larger groups of Marines or help a staff serve a larger unit of Marines. They are responsible for operational planning and execution, as well as ensuring that all regulations and policies are followed. Their rank insignia is sometimes referred to as "railroad tracks" because of the resemblance to railway tracks.

Marine Corps Officer Ranks (Field Grade Officers)

Field grade officers are titled accordingly because they are officers who provide leadership to organizations that are in the field. They are leading or helping to lead, in the field, larger military organizations that are comprised of small company sized units. That means that usually they are located with those units and not in a headquarters somewhere. However, it is important to note, there are plenty of field grade officers who are headquarters staffers who do not serve in the field with maneuvering forces. Field grade officers are majors, lieutenant colonels, and colonels.

Majors are staff officers or battalion commanders and are responsible for leading a large number of Marines to accomplish major strategic goals. They must have a deep understanding of military tactics and strategy, and must be able to effectively communicate with their superiors and subordinates alike. Ordinarily at this stage, officers start to expand their strategic military knowledge and by now many have graduate degrees. Some attend strategic military colleges and others participate in special fellowships, giving them exposure to the business community and elected leaders to help them expand their knowledge base. Majors wear gold oak leaf clusters as rank insignias.

Lieutenant Colonels are battalion commanders or staff officers and are responsible for managing personnel and equipment within their command. They are often involved in strategic planning and future predictions, and must be able to quickly adapt to changes on the battlefield. "Lite colonels," as they are sometimes called, wear silver oak leaf clusters as their rank insignia.

Colonels are the highest-ranking field grade officers. Colonels are also responsible for managing personnel and resources, but on a much larger scale. They are often involved in major strategic decisions and must have a deep understanding of modern warfare. Colonels, or "full birds," as they are respectfully referred to, wear eagles as a rank insignia, as shown above.

Marine Corps Officer Ranks (General Officers)

There is often confusion, sometimes even by those who wear the uniform, about what generals are called. Some believe, incorrectly, that general officers are synonymous with the term flag officers. That is untrue.

A flag officer is a Navy officer who has reached the O-7 through O-10 pay grades. Therefore, they are entitled to fly a flag which displays their rank. However, in the Army, Air Force and Marine Corps, officers in those pay grades are referred to as general officers. The confusion might come from the fact that general officers are also allowed to fly a fly denoting their rank, but only the Navy has flag officers.

The first general officer rank is that of a one-star general, also known as Brigadier General. A general officer, brigadier generals are responsible for leading a number of battalions (normally led by lieutenant colonels) or other large military organizations. They serve as intermediaries between high-level military leaders and the lower-ranking officers. They wear one silver star as a rank insignia.

The second general officer rank is Major General, sometimes known as a "two-star general." Like brigadier generals they lead a number of battalions or other organizations. They must have extensive experience in both combat and administrative functions, and are often involved in strategic planning on a global scale. They wear two silver stars to denote their rank.

Lieutenant Generals are high-level commanders responsible for overseeing entire regions or theaters of war. They must be able to make strategic decisions that can affect large numbers of personnel and equipment, and must be able to communicate effectively with high-level civilian and military leaders alike. They wear silver three-star insignia.

Lastly, the highest rank in the Marine Corps is that of General. They are often referred to as "four-star generals" because they wear four silver stars to indicate their rank. Generals are responsible for overseeing the entire organization. They must have a deep understanding of modern warfare and be able to make strategic decisions on a global scale. Generals are also responsible for providing leadership and guidance to their subordinates, and for ensuring that the Marine Corps maintains the highest level of readiness.

Marine Corps Officer Ranks (Conclusion)

Understanding the ranks and responsibilities of Marine Corps officers and those who wear Marine Corps Officer Ranks is crucial for anyone interested in joining the military, or for those who have already served. From the second lieutenant who is just starting out to the highest-ranking general, every officer plays a critical role in the success of the mission.

Remember, all Marines are leaders, and all Marines uphold the core values and traditions of the Marine Corps. For a full list of Marine Corps officer ranks please visit USAMM’s Marine Corps officer ranks page.

Marine Corps Officer Ranks (Summary)

• Company Grade Officers: Second Lieutenant, First Lieutenant, Captain
• Field Grade Officers: Major, Lieutenant Colonel, Colonel
• General Officers: Brigadier General, Major General, Lieutenant General, General

Introduction

The U.S. Marine Corps is known for its intense training, discipline, and dedication to duty, but there's one event that has been bringing Marines and their families together for a century: the Marine Corps Ball. This annual celebration is a time-honored tradition that includes ceremony, dinner, dancing, and camaraderie.

In this blog post, we will explore the history of the Marine Corps Ball, what happens during the event, and what it means for Marines and their families. What is the Marine Corps Ball?

What is the Marine Corps Ball?

The Marine Corps Ball is an annual celebration held by the U.S. Marine Corps to commemorate their founding on November 10, 1775. The Marine Corps Ball is celebrated each year on the Corps’ birthday. The first organized Marine Corps birthday ball was held in Philadelphia in 1921. It was a formal affair, featuring a three-course meal, speeches, and music. The tradition quickly spread throughout the Corps, and by the 1950s, it had become an annual event for all Marines.

Today, the Marine Corps Ball is one of the most important events on the Marine Corps calendar. The event is typically held in November or December, and it is a chance for Marines and their families to come together and celebrate the Corps' history, traditions, and values. It's also an opportunity for Marines to honor those who have served before them and to reflect on their own service. If you are a young Marine or a new Marine family member and you find yourself asking, “What is the Marine Corps Ball?” then read on.

What is the Marine Corps Ball attire?

The Marine Corps Ball is a formal event, and attendees are expected to dress accordingly. Marines wear the dress blue uniform. Women who are not Marines typically wear a long formal dress. Men who are not Marines normally wear a tuxedo or equally formal attire.

However, it is important to note that Marines around the world, even those in austere, forward deployed conditions, will often mark the Marine Corps birthday in some official manner, but sometimes those events are in the field, and therefore, Marines do not wear formal attire, but instead wear their duty uniforms.

What is the Marine Corps Ball List of Events?

The ball typically starts with a receiving line, where Marines and their guests are introduced to the commanding officer and other senior leaders. After the receiving line, there is a ceremony that includes a presentation of the colors, the Marine Corps Hymn, and a speech by a guest speaker. The dinner portion of the Marine Corps Ball is an elaborate affair, featuring multiple courses and plenty of toasts (not bread, but toasts made with glasses). It’s also a time to honor Marines who have previously served.

Notice we didn’t write “former Marines.” Marine veterans are referred to as “Marines.” Once a person earns the title of United States Marine, they are always considered and referred to as a Marine. The oldest and youngest Marines in attendance are recognized at the ball, as are Marines who have recently returned from combat. During the Global War on Terrorism, there were normally many Marines recognized during this portion of the ball.

One of the more popular events of the Marine Corps Ball is the ceremonial cake cutting. During the cake cutting the first slice of cake is traditionally given to the guest of honor, who then passes it to the oldest Marine present. This is one of the highlights of the Marine Corps Ball. The oldest and youngest Marines in attendance are usually chosen to participate in this special tradition, symbolizing the passing of knowledge and experience from one generation to the next. It’s a beautiful moment that truly captures the camaraderie and brotherhood/sisterhood of the Marine Corps.

After dinner, the dancing begins. The DJ or band typically plays a mix of music, from slow ballads to upbeat pop songs. Marines and their guests are encouraged to dance and have a good time. There may also be a photobooth or other entertainment provided.

What is the Marine Corps Ball ultimately?

The Marine Corps Ball is much more than a formal event. It's a chance for Marines and their families to come together and celebrate everything that makes the Marine Corps great. Additionally, attending the Marine Corps Ball is not just reserved for active-duty Marines and their spouses. Retired Marines, Marine Reservists, Marine veterans, and even civilians can also attend as guests of service members.

The Marine Corps Ball is a great opportunity to connect with fellow Marines and their families, as well as show support for the Marine Corps. It is important to remember that the Marine Corps Ball is considered an extraordinarily important event to the U.S. Marine Corps. While attendance is important, it is also important to consider the cost of attending the Marine Corps Ball for those who are on a budget.

While most units try to keep ticket prices reasonable, there may be additional costs associated with attending the Marine Corps Ball. Purchasing formal attire, uniform items, transportation to and from the venue, and hotel rooms are some commonly overlooked expenses and it is always a good idea to budget and plan ahead for these expenses. Saving for the Marine Corps Ball ahead of time will prevent fiscal surprises and it will enable you to focus on enjoying an evening with the Marines.

Lastly, don't forget to have fun! The Marine Corps Ball is a celebration and a chance to let loose and enjoy the company of the most feared fighting force in the world, the U.S. Marines. Make sure to take plenty of photos, dance the night away, and create unforgettable memories. It's not just about honoring traditions but also creating new ones with your Marine family.

Marine Corps Ball Quick Reference

• What is the Marine Corps Ball most common saying? Semper Fi!

• What is the Marine Corps Ball attire? Formal wear.

• What is the Marine Corps Ball? A celebration of the Marine Corps.

• What is the Marine Corps Ball location? Worldwide, wherever there are Marines.

Introduction

Every year on October 26, National Day of the Deployed is observed to honor the hard work, dedication, and sacrifice of our brave military personnel who are serving overseas. It is a day to recognize and appreciate the efforts of all the military personnel who have been away from their families and loved ones for extended periods. This day is also an excellent opportunity to show gratitude towards military spouses, siblings, children, and parents who support their deployed family members. In this blog post, we will delve deeper into what National Day of the Deployed is and why it is essential to honor our deployed military personnel.

History and significance of National Day of the Deployed

National Day of the Deployed was first observed in 2006 when the governor of North Dakota, John Hoeven, proclaimed it as a day of recognition. It aimed to thank military personnel who are deployed worldwide and raise awareness about the contributions of the deployed military personnel and their families. On this day, Americans express their support and appreciation to those who willingly leave their homes to serve and defend their country, sometimes in dangerous conditions.

At that time, in 2006, hundreds of thousands of military service members were deployed worldwide in support of the various military operations that were a part of the Global War on Terrorism (GWOT). American troops were deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan in the wake of 9/11, but there were also forces deployed as part of regular global security rotations in Korea and Europe. In addition, the U.S. Navy projects power overseas through the deployment of naval groups in international waters.

Importance of honoring deployed military personnel

Deployed military personnel face many challenges and sacrifices in their service, including separation from their loved ones, exposure to stressful and dangerous environments, and long hours in harsh conditions. Through supporting National Day of the Deployed, we can recognize their resilience, passion, and perseverance. It is also a day to acknowledge the tremendous sacrifices their families make on their behalf and renew our support and commitment to them.

While at the height of the GWOT, deployed service personnel were mostly kept in the thoughts of the nation, but as the United States has pulled out of Iraq and Afghanistan, many Americans do not realize that the United States still has thousands of personnel forward deployed in regions all over the world to support U.S. partners and to provide a security apparatus that helps maintain a relative peace in particular regions. The mere presence of deployed American personnel, and their partner country counterparts, serves as a great deterrent against aggression.

How to honor and recognize the deployed military personnel

There are many ways to show your appreciation and honor the deployed military personnel and their families on National Day of the Deployed. You can participate in events held specifically to show gratitude to the military, send thank-you letters and care packages, volunteer at military organizations and charities, and donate to the military-related causes. You can also raise awareness about this day on social media, use hashtags like #NationalDayOfTheDeployed, and share stories of military personnel and their families.

It is easy to overlook what military personnel provide on any given day. Americans live virtually under no threat from those who have ill-will towards the United States and that is in no small part thanks to the bravery and sacrifice of those who are willing to serve, and furthermore, by those who are deployed. Any small act of support for the deployed military personnel and their families goes a long way.

Impact of National Day of the Deployed on military personnel and their families

National Day of the Deployed provides a platform for military personnel and their families to share their experiences and stories. It encourages civilians to recognize the important contributions and sacrifices that military personnel and their families make. By participating in this day, military personnel and their families can feel understood and appreciated, which can have a positive impact on their mental and emotional well-being.

While most, if not all, military personnel are modest and do not expect any recognition in return for their service, deployed service members endure considerable strain, as do their families, so recognizing them or showing gratitude in some way not only improves morale, but it makes them feel like they have justification for making the sacrifices that benefit so many people.

Conclusion

Our U.S. military personnel are the nation’s pride. Every year, for decades, the U.S. military has rated highly in public opinion polls, higher than elected officials. The American people trust and support their military personnel. It seems that the lesson the American public learned from the Vietnam War was to embrace its military heroes when they come home.

The National Day of the Deployed offers the American public a chance to reconcile its treatment of veterans who served in forward areas in service to their country. Americans have learned to support, not admonish, those who wear the uniform and to hold them in high regard as they do the nation’s work.  

National Day of the Deployed is an opportunity to honor and thank all our deployed military personnel for their service to our country. It is a day to acknowledge their remarkable determination and commitment to preserving our freedom and values. Through showing our appreciation and recognition, we can make a difference in the lives of military personnel and their families. Let us all join hands and celebrate National Day of the Deployed and show our respect, appreciation, and support for our brave military personnel. 

Dog tags serve a sad, but necessary function in the U.S. military. They enable medical and mortuary affairs teams to identify wounded or dead service personnel and process them accordingly.

Dog tags can help medical personnel treat the wounded by providing critical identifiable information about the patient. Information like blood type and other medical information can be ascertained by simply identifying the wounded service member.

Dog tags can also be used by casualty affairs personnel to help them process the remains of service member. With the information contained on a dog tag, it triggers a multitude of processes that start once the deceased service member is identified.

Therefore, if dog tags are lost, it is important to know where and how to get replacement dog tags. And it is important to note that a person does not have to be in the service to benefit from dog tags. They can help those who are veterans or even civilians.

Here are five ways to get replacement dog tags.

1. Active-duty replacement dog tags
Members of the active-duty U.S. military in need of replacement dog tags should reach out to their unit administrative personnel for guidance on how to get replacement dog tags. Supply sections, personnel offices, operations shops, or the administrative orderly rooms are normally charged with managing dog tag programs.

Each branch of service and then each military occupation will likely have different offices that manage their replacement dog tags program. For example, in the Air Force, the supply section used to issue replacement dog tags because they were the section that provided airmen with mobilization gear. In the Army, it is the S-1 shop, or human resources, that normally manages the dog tag replacement program.

Active-duty personnel can also get replacement dog tags at USAMM. USAMM is dedicated to crafting the highest quality regulation military service ID tags available, offered for every branch of service. USAMM’s replacement dog tags are professionally made and regulation specific, covering the U.S. Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, Space Force and Coast Guard.

2. Reserve component replacement dog tags
Members of the Marine Corps Reserve, Navy Reserve, Air Force Reserve, Army Reserve, and Coast Guard Reserve in need of replacement dog tags should reach out to their unit administrative personnel for guidance on how to get replacement dog tags. Supply sections, personnel offices, operations shops, or the administrative orderly rooms are normally charged with managing dog tag programs.

Each branch of service in the reserve component and then each military occupation will likely have different offices that manage their replacement dog tags program. For example, in the Air Force Reserve, the supply section used to issue replacement dog tags because they were the section that provided airmen with mobilization gear. In the Army Reserve, it is the S-1 shop, or human resources team, that normally manages the dog tag replacement program.

Reserve component personnel can also get replacement dog tags at USAMM. USAMM is dedicated to crafting the highest quality regulation military service ID tags available, offered for every branch of service. USAMM’s replacement dog tags are professionally made and regulation specific, covering the U.S. Army Reserve, Navy Reserve, Marine Corps Reserve, Air Force Reserve, and Coast Guard Reserve.

3. National Guard replacement dog tags
Members of the Army and Air National Guard in need of replacement dog tags should reach out to their unit administrative personnel for guidance on how to get replacement dog tags. Supply sections, personnel offices, operations shops, or the administrative orderly rooms are normally charged with managing dog tag programs. A good place to start is your first line supervisor.

Each branch of service and then each military occupation will likely have different offices that manage their replacement dog tags program. For example, in the Air National Guard, the supply section used to issue replacement dog tags because they were the section that provided airmen with mobilization gear. In the Army National Guard, it is the S-1 shop, or human resources, that normally manages the dog tag replacement program. Again, it varies depending on the kind of unit that a service member is in.

National Guard personnel can also get replacement dog tags at USAMM. USAMM is dedicated to crafting the highest quality regulation military service ID tags available, offered for every branch of service. USAMM’s replacement dog tags are professionally made and regulation specific, covering the Army and Air National Guards from the different states and U.S. territories.

Veterans can get replacement dog tags at USAMM. USAMM is dedicated to crafting the highest quality regulation military service ID tags available, offered for every branch of service. USAMM’s replacement dog tags are professionally made and regulation specific, covering the U.S. Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, Space Force and Coast Guard, and all three components; active-duty, reserve and National Guard.

5. Replacement dog tags for anyone
Looking for a unique military themed gift? Now you can create custom sets of military service ID tags using our new custom tag option. A personalized set of tags is a great gift for friends or family members.