Danielle Cook, Mike Tozzolo and Carolyn Sykes. PHOTO BY JOSHUA KODIS

With the solemn pageantry deserving of their service, current and former members of the Marine Corps, along with a showing of members from other branches of the military, wives and friends gathered for the United States Marine Corps 248th Birthday Ball, held this year at the Oak Harbor Club. Nearly 200 guests attended, many in their dress formals, polished medals shining brilliantly, for an evening commemorating three C’s: ceremony, celebration and comradeship.

Held nationwide, the event was hosted locally by the Indian River Detachment of the Marine Corps League. The celebration commemorates the resolution passed by the Continental Congress on November 10, 1775, marking the founding of the Marines.

The evening was steeped in military tradition, from the welcome by current Commandant Dwight Harris and presentation of Colors by Marine Corps JROTC cadets, to a reading by John Michael Matthews of the Original Charter of the Marine Corps.

A solemn tribute featured the playing of taps and the tolling of the ship’s bell in recognition of those detachment members and prominent veterans who passed away since the last ball: John Brady, Sam Kouns, Marty Zickert, Mike Discipio and Bill Timberlake.

Additionally, as a stark reminder of those who remain POW/MIA, a set but empty table is featured at all military balls.

Another of the time-honored acts is the cutting of the birthday cake with a Mameluke sword, with the oldest among them passing a slice to the youngest in a symbolic gesture of passing along experience and knowledge. This year, Willie Payne as the oldest, cut the cake, before passing a piece to Maj. Mike Tozzolo as the youngest. The cake cutting was followed by the traditional toast to the Corps with a secret recipe, Marine Corps punch.

Although raised in the area, Tozzolo said he moved away in 2004 and joined the Marines in 2008. After spending 10.5 years in service, he joined the reserves, was called back to active duty for a year, and is now back in the reserves, drilling with Marine Corps Forces Pacific out of Hawaii.

Semper Fidelis, meaning always faithful, signifies a marine’s loyalty to the United States as well as to their fellow service men and women. As such, the Marine Corps League is dedicated to preserving its centuries-old traditions, while also providing support to those who are currently serving, veterans and the survivors of fallen marines.

Regular Detachment meetings are held at 7 p.m. on the fourth Thursday of each month at the American Legion Post 39. For more information, visit mclirc.org.

Photos by Joshua Kodis