Happy Birthday Marine... and Happy Veteran's Day to All... (edit/delete)

November 10 is a day of celebration and remembrance. It marks the 233rd birthday of the United Sates Marine Corps. So to all Marines, I say "Happy Birthday Marine!"

For twelve years, I was proud to call myself a Marine Corps wife. Now that my husband is out and serves in the Navy Reserves, I find that this time of year, I miss the annual Marine Corps Birthday Ball. Something about getting all dressed up, experiencing the pomp and circumstance was such a rush. Although very festive, there was a time during the evening, when the mood took on a more somber and humble tone. During every Birthday Ball, after the speeches and obligatory comments, there was always the mention of the POW/MIA table. If you are not familiar with this tradition, it is a beautiful yet moving homage to all those warriors who are currently unaccounted for.

The table is set for those who cannot be with us, and are thus remembered. The table is usually small in size, with a lit candle representing the frailty of one prisoner against his oppressors. It is covered in a white tablecloth, signifying the purity of one's heart and intentions with which they honorably answer their country's call to arms. The black ribbon around the candle reminds us of those who will not be returning. The single rose in a vase memorializes the faith the families keep alive, awaiting their warrior's return. The yellow ribbon tied delicately around that same vase is a reminder of the ribbons often worn for veterans until returning home. In the place setting, sits a bread plate with one slice of lemon, representing their bitter fate, should they not be found. Next to the lemon is salt, reminding us of the tears shed by the families. The glasses in the place setting are inverted, as they are not here to make a toast. The chair is empty, as they cannot be here for the special night. Their chair remains visible, however, in hopes of their return.

For those of us privileged enough to be a part of such a touching ceremony, we are invited to not remember the ghosts of the past, but rather all warriors in and out of combat. It is at this time, the candle is extinguished, and silence and quiet solemnity fill the air.

To bring the mood in the room to a more cheerful feeling, the oldest Marine in the room is introduced alongside the youngest Marine in the room. It is a time when we are reminded of the courage and enthusiasm a young warrior expresses, as well as the stalwart durability of a more mature Marine. The two then share Marine Corps birthday cake. The cake is cut, with the first piece going to the Guest of Honor, the second going to the Oldest Marine, who then takes the piece and passes it to the Youngest Marine, to signify the passing of knowledge and experience, but further emphasizing that the Marines take care of the young Marines first, before satisfying themselves. The third piece is then accepted by the Oldest Marine and eaten. I only write of the Marines, as that was what I am exposed to.

On the Eve of Veteran's Day, I am remembering all past and current service members. I will sport a yellow ribbon all day, and I encourage you to do the same. The Marines are celebrating a magnificent accomplishment, ever since the Continental Congress signed two battalions into being: known as the Continental Marines, they were to fight for independence on shore and at sea. So I would like to close with another Happy Birthday to all Marines, but more importantly, a Happy Veteran's Day for all service members, and a resounding Thank You for your brave service to this great nation.

Today and especially tomorrow are times to reflect on our freedom and the great sacrifices our service members have made and are making for all of us.

Take a special look around tomororw. You will notice folks wearing ball caps, jackets, or patches showcasing the different services, squadrons, units, platoons, warships, aircraft carriers, tankers, battalions, squads, submarines, artillery, infantry, intelligence, medical corps, special ops, Green Berets, Pathfinder, Ranger, POW/MIA, pilot wings, jump wings, Navy Seal, Marine Force Recon, military police, Purple Heart, Distinguished Flying Cross, and many others. If you notice these, you are seeing Veterans. And if you are in the presence of a veteran, you are in the presence of someone great, who made a decision one day to answer this country's call for freedom.  Remember to just say, "thank you". You will make someone's day. Thank you for reading.