Last Wednesday was the USMC's 235th birthday. Michele and I went to the Marine Cryptological Support Battalion Birthday Ball. I of course wore my Tewksbury Leatherneck Box Pleat. This year I had the semi dress Welsh sporran I got from USA Kilts. Rocky was very helpful and kept me in the loop on its' arrival from Scotland - his customer care is above and beyond. Michele was of course lovely.



We ran into the piper and drummer, both in I believe Confederate Heritage tartan.



The Birthday cake bringing escorted in.



The table in the background is the separate table, set with an upside down place setting, the hat, sword, Purple Heart medal, and single candle, for those of our comrades who can be there in spirit only.



One of our table mates at dinner. For those with some idea of military matters, the question is "How did a 1st LT get two rows of medals? A clue is the seond medal from the right in the top row. It's an enlisted Good Conduct medal. The young man earned a commision on the field of battle.



His beautiful companion stood at strict attention during the Marine Corps Hymn, shoulders square, feet together toes at a 45 degree angle, hands cupped at her sides with thumbs where her side seam would be if she had one. I had to ask, and yes she is also a Marine no longer subject reveille, having served in the Corps for 4 years herself.





The ceremonies ended with pipes and drum marching at slow step to "Amazing Grace"



Semper Fidelis

Geoff Withnell