On November 10, 1775, in a smoky Philadelphia tavern called Tun Tavern, two Continental Marine captains raised the first glasses to what would become the United States Marine Corps. Every year since, on this date, Marines worldwide pause to toast the Corps’ birthday—whether in a muddy foxhole, aboard a ship, or at a formal ball. Today marks the 250th anniversary of that founding moment, a milestone that invites reflection on the history, sacrifices, and enduring traditions of “The Few. The Proud.”
A Revolution Born in a Tavern
The Continental Congress didn’t create the Marines for glory; it needed shipboard infantry to seize British vessels and raid coastal strongholds. Captain Samuel Nicholas received the first commission, and within weeks, 300 volunteers—many of them Philadelphia dockworkers—formed two battalions. Their first action came in March 1776, when Nicholas led a landing party in the Bahamas, capturing Fort Montfort and its priceless gunpowder stores. The raid succeeded without a single Marine lost, proving the value of a small, disciplined amphibious force.
The Corps dissolved after the Revolution but was reborn in 1798 amid the Quasi-War with France. President John Adams signed the act establishing the United States Marine Corps as a permanent branch under the Navy Department. From Tripoli’s shores to the halls of Montezuma, Marines earned a reputation for going where others could not—or would not.
From Belleau Wood to Iwo Jima
World War I introduced the Marines to modern trench warfare. At Belleau Wood in June 1918, German reports labeled them Teufel Hunden—devil dogs—after the 4th Marine Brigade halted a German advance through a wheat field turned killing ground. Captain Lloyd Williams famously replied to a French order to retreat, “Retreat? Hell, we just got here.”
World War II scaled that ferocity across the Pacific. On Iwo Jima’s black sands, six Marines raised the flag atop Mount Suribachi—an image that still defines American resolve. The Corps paid dearly: 23,000 casualties in 36 days of fighting. Yet every island campaign—from Guadalcanal to Okinawa—relied on Marine amphibious doctrine refined since the 1930s.
Korea’s frozen Chosin Reservoir, Vietnam’s Khe Sanh, Iraq’s Fallujah, and Afghanistan’s Helmand Province added new chapters. In 2025, Marines still train for “crisis response” aboard amphibious ready groups, ready to evacuate embassies or strike terrorist strongholds within hours.
Traditions That Bind 250 Years
The birthday celebration itself is the oldest military tradition in continuous practice. The ritual is codified in Marine Corps Order 5060.20:
- The Cake: A sheet cake for the unit, a smaller cake for the oldest and youngest Marines present. The first slice goes to the guest of honor (usually the oldest Marine), who passes the second slice to the youngest—symbolizing the transfer of experience.
- The Reading: Every command reads the 1775 resolution and Commandant General Lejeune’s 1921 birthday message, which reminds Marines they are “first to fight” and keepers of an unbroken legacy.
- The Ball: Dress blues, swords, and the Empty Table ceremony honoring missing comrades. The Marine Corps Birthday Ball is the only military event where enlisted and officers dance the same floor as equals for one night.
Beyond November 10, traditions run deep:
- The Eagle, Globe, and Anchor: Earned only after The Crucible, the 54-hour capstone of boot camp. Recruits are no longer “maggots”; they are Marines.
- The Blood Stripe: Red stripes on NCO and officer trousers commemorate the 1847 Battle of Chapultepec, where 90 percent of Marine officers fell storming Mexico City’s castle.
- Semper Fidelis: Shortened from Duke of Exeter’s motto, it became the official Marine motto in 1883. The Marine Band plays it as “Semper Fi” at every change of command.
250 Years Strong
Today, 182,000 active-duty and 38,500 reserve Marines stand watch. Women now serve in every MOS, including infantry. The Corps fields F-35B stealth fighters that take off from amphibious assault ships and experiments with drone swarms and hypersonic missiles. Yet the ethos remains unchanged: a rifle company can still seize a beachhead with nothing but small boats and iron will.
So raise a glass—whether MRE coffee in a fighting hole or champagne at the ball—and echo the toast heard in every clime and place:
“To the United States Marine Corps—Happy 250th Birthday. Semper Fidelis.”
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American Legion compiled List of Discounts and Venues
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Poth, Texas – November 5, 2025 – In a heartwarming display of community spirit, volunteers from VFW Post 8555 and Auxiliary in Poth, Texas, rose early this morning to collect and distribute essential food supplies to families in need, just in time for the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday. The effort underscores the vital role local organizations play in supporting vulnerable residents during the festive season.
The operation kicked off at 0730 hours when a dedicated team of sixteen VFW & Auxiliary volunteers arrived at the VFW Post 8555 to download the donations and begin distributing them. By midday, they had successfully provided aid to 130 families, ensuring that many households in the area would have the resources to enjoy a nourishing Thanksgiving meal. The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) organization, known for its advocacy and support services, has been a cornerstone in Poth for years, hosting events that foster camaraderie and assistance.
The San Antonio Food Bank, a key partner in this endeavor, has been instrumental in combating food insecurity across South Texas. According to recent reports, food banks like this one serve thousands of individuals annually, with demand spiking during holidays. Today's collection included a variety of items tailored to family needs, from pantry essentials to kid-friendly snacks, helping to alleviate the financial strain that holidays can bring.
Recipients expressed profound gratitude for the timely support. The distribution was conducted with care, following health and safety protocols to ensure a smooth process for all involved. This event is part of a broader wave of pre-Thanksgiving activities across Texas, where communities rally to address food insecurity. VFW Post 8555 plans to continue such efforts, with future drives aimed at holiday toy collections and veteran support programs. Residents interested in volunteering or donating can contact the post directly for more information.
As Thanksgiving approaches on November 27, stories like this remind us of the power of collective action. In Poth, the spirit of giving is alive and well, thanks to the tireless work of VFW volunteers.
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POTH, Texas – In a heartfelt display of community, spirit, and gratitude, members of Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 8555 joined forces with local students to honor Wilson County veterans on November 2, 2025. The group installed individual roadside signs along Highway 181 at the entrance to Poth, each bearing the name and military affiliation of a local veteran. This initiative, timed just ahead of Veterans Day on November 11, aims to remind residents of the sacrifices made by their neighbors and loved ones in defense of freedom.
The project, organized by VFW Post 8555, transformed a stretch of the highway into a living memorial. Each sign stands as a personal tribute, etched with details such as the veteran's branch of service—whether Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, or Coast Guard—and their name, ensuring that passersby can reflect on the individuals who served. "These aren't just names on a sign; they're our community's heroes," said a VFW representative involved in the effort. The signs are strategically placed to greet visitors and locals alike as they enter Poth, a small town in Wilson County known for its tight-knit community and strong patriotic roots.
Volunteers played a key role in bringing the vision to life. Students from Poth ISD and La Vernia ISD dedicated their time on this crisp autumn Saturday, working alongside VFW members to install the signs. For many of the young participants, the experience was educational and inspiring. "It's amazing to learn about the people from our own area who fought in wars like Vietnam, Iraq, or Afghanistan," shared one Poth ISD student. "Helping put up these signs makes me appreciate what they did even more."
The collaboration highlights the intergenerational bond in honoring military service. VFW Post 8555, which serves veterans in the region, has a history of community outreach, including events that support former service members and educate the public about their contributions. This roadside tribute is part of a broader effort to keep veterans' stories alive, especially as Veterans Day approaches. The signs will serve as a daily reminder for commuters and travelers on Hwy 181, fostering a sense of pride and remembrance in Wilson County.
As the volunteers wrapped up their work under the Texas sun, the entrance to Poth took on a new significance—a gateway not just to the town, but to its shared history of valor. The project underscores the importance of community involvement in preserving legacies, showing how even simple acts like installing signs can have a profound impact.
This November, as we celebrate Veterans Day, let us all take a moment to remember our veterans. Whether through attending local ceremonies, reaching out to a veteran in your life, or simply pausing to reflect on their service, honor those who fought for our freedoms. Their sacrifices built the world we enjoy today—don't let their stories fade.
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Poth, TX – November 1, 2025 – The Wilson County Memorial VFW Post 8555 made a memorable appearance at the recent Coffee, Cars & Veterans Car Show in Floresville, Texas, showcasing their dedication to veterans and fostering community connections. Held November the first, the event drew hundreds of attendees for a day filled with classic cars, steaming coffee, and heartfelt tributes to those who have served our nation.
Established in 1971, VFW Post 8555 has been a cornerstone of support for veterans in Wilson County and beyond. Located at 715 Houston Street in Poth, the post operates as a vibrant hub for social, educational, and charitable activities. Under the leadership of Commander Marvin Roemer, members engage in everything from providing military honors at ceremonies to organizing scholarships, community fundraisers, and outreach programs. The post's Auxiliary plays a key role too, hosting events like birthday celebrations at local veterans' homes and participating in initiatives such as Wreaths Across America. With monthly meetings on the second Monday at 7:30 PM, the post welcomes all eligible combat veterans and families to join their mission of service and camaraderie.
At the Coffee, Cars & Veterans event, hosted by the nonprofit organization of the same name, Post 8555 set up an engaging booth that became a focal point for visitors. The setup featured informational displays on veterans' resources, membership opportunities, and stories from local heroes. Attendees could chat with post members about benefits, upcoming events, and ways to get involved, all while admiring a stunning array of vintage vehicles lining the streets. The event, which supports veterans through car shows, fundraisers, and meetups, perfectly aligned with the post's values.
We had veterans sharing war stories over coffee, families learning about our programs, and car enthusiasts bonding over their rides. It was a beautiful reminder of how community events like this honor our service members while building lasting friendships.
The day was a resounding success, with perfect weather complementing the lineup of classic cars, from gleaming muscle machines to restored military vehicles. Live music, food vendors, and raffles added to the festive vibe, and proceeds from the event went toward local veteran causes, including support for those facing hardships. Post 8555's participation not only highlighted their ongoing commitment but also helped raise awareness about resources available through the VFW.
As Wilson County's go-to organization for veteran advocacy, Post 8555 continues to make a difference. Recent efforts include a generous donation to the Kerr County Flood Relief Fund and regular involvement in honor guards for community gatherings. Events like Coffee, Cars & Veterans exemplify how collaboration among veteran groups strengthens the fabric of the community.
For more information on VFW Post 8555 or to attend a meeting, contact them at (830) 484-2327 or visit their hall in Poth. The post encourages all to join in their efforts to support those who have sacrificed for our freedom.
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