USMC Birthday 2019

2019-11-10

Prior to his passing in 1997 my old friend Dewitt was a stickler for the Marines and all things related to them.

He dutifully attended the Marine Corps League meetings and went out of his way to project a squared away appearance wearing a very smart uniform and indulging the group in every way possible.

Alas, it pretty much marked the end of our 'boon companionship' and I dare say I have spoken harshly about the league because of it's impact on my life ... but in retrospect it was all foolish and selfish and it was something loved dearly so how could I ever speak harshly of it or him or any of his choices.

One of the biggies in his life was the birthday ball which he began talking about very early and spent hour upon hour preparing for. It was his "night to howl" so to speak and all I could do was stand by and support him in his pursuit of the night.

The United States Marine Corps Birthday is celebrated yearly on the date that the Continental Marines were established, on the tenth of November.

The celebration includes a traditional ball and cake cutting ceremony. Yes, it was his day and he always went.

When my dear friend passed this earthly existence he was interred in his Marine Corps League uniform and I dare say he was a striking image laying there in that casket as I weeped but a few pews away.

So here's to his Marines, Semper Fi, Eldon. I miss you to this day.