Sporting formal dress uniforms adorned with highly polished medals, proud members of the Marine Corps League Indian River Detachment gathered with loved ones and comrades to celebrate the 249th birthday of the Marine Corps. The annual event recognizes Nov. 10, 1775, as the date that the Continental Marines were established by the Continental Congress.
Some 180 guests filled the Club at Pointe West for an event steeped in military pageantry, with Commandant Dwight Harris delivering opening remarks covering the traditional three C’s: Ceremony, Celebration and Comradeship.
The Ceremony began with the presentation of colors by members of the Navy Sea Cadets, the Neptune Spear Division JROTC from Port St. Lucie. It was followed by the National Anthem, an invocation by chaplain Frank Baudo, the reading of the original charter, the rededication of the detachment flag and the playing of “Taps” in memory of fallen comrades.
As a touching reminder of the ultimate sacrifice, a ‘missing man’ table was set up in the front of the dining room at a table set with a white tablecloth, a single red rose, shining silverware and a gleaming plate, alongside a solitary empty chair.
“The table is separate from the others and can be set for one or for four,” Harris explained.
“Place settings represent each service participating in the event. The white tablecloth draped over the table represents the purity of the response to our country’s call to arms. The empty chair depicts an unknown face, representing no specific soldier, sailor, airman or marine, but all who are not here with us,” said Harris.
“The table itself is round to show that our concern for them is never ending. The Bible represents faith in the higher power and defense to our country, counted as one nation under God. The black napkin stands for the emptiness these warriors have left in the hearts of their families and friends,” he said.
Harris added that a purple heart metal can be pinned into the napkin.
“The single red rose reminds us of their families and loved ones. The red ribbon represents the love of our country, which inspired them to answer our nation’s call, and its yellow ribbon symbolizes the everlasting hope for a joyous reunion with those yet accounted for. The slice of lemon on the bread plate reminds us of their bitter taste. The salt represents the tears of the families. The wine glass turned upside down reminds us that our distinguished comrades cannot be with us to drink a toast or join in the festivities of the evening.”
The ceremonial cutting of the cake by Frank Baudo and Jeff Palleschi followed dinner. By tradition it is conducted by the oldest and youngest marines in attendance as a symbolic gesture of passing along wisdom, experience and knowledge.
Camaraderie abounded with members from all branches of the service uniting in celebration.
“We had veterans from the Army, Airforce, Navy and even a Green Beret in attendance,” said Joshua Bryant, vice commandant. “We are proud to serve with each and every one of these brave men.”
Photos by Joshua Kodis
