By Jaimi Erickson
Contributing Writer
If you’re a Marine Corps family, you know November 10th is a sacred date. It’s embedded in our minds as the birthday of the Marine Corps — a day filled with both lore and historical significance. The Marine Corps, the only branch of the military to be founded in a bar, celebrates its existence with an annual ball.
I previously shared how my family held a memorable Marine Corps ball at home, but the final ball we attended as a family right before my husband’s retirement was truly unforgettable.
Our final official Marine Corps Ball couldn’t have been a better experience. All four grandparents and our four children joined us. We attended the ball on base in a historic venue, which made the night even more meaningful.
Before the event, we all brushed up on classic line dances by taking tutorials on YouTube. To create memories to last a lifetime, we took photos right outside our home in a historic neighborhood on Camp Lejeune. I often joke that at every Marine Corps Ball we have attended, I end up sitting at a table with complete strangers. My husband will step away to get a drink, and I’ll continue to sit there reading the ceremony program, waiting for him to return. The wait takes forever since he ends up talking to all of the Marines he works with.
This year was different. Our table was filled with family, so there was always someone to talk to. It was the perfect ball because we shared the experience with our favorite people, giving us a memorable event we will always cherish.
Tips for Bringing Family to the Marine Corps Ball
If you’re thinking about bringing family members — especially children — to a Marine Corps birthday ball, here are some tips to help you plan.
Prepare the kids so they understand the evening’s protocol and are ready to sit still.
This is important. You do not want your kids disturbing the ceremony. If they are old enough to sit quietly, it will go a long way for everyone to enjoy their time. Bring quiet activities so your child can color while the guest speaker is speaking to be respectful during the quiet parts of the ceremony.
Remember to eat something right before you go.
It can be a long wait until dinner is served at a ball. First, there is cocktail hour, then finding your seats, followed by the speeches and videos. It all takes a lot of time and it’s not recommended that you get up during the main presentation. Eat some snacks before you leave for the ball or tuck some crackers in a purse for the kids so they do not get hungry while waiting for dinner.
Remind everyone that they will be around Marines.
The word choice in conversations taking place around you may not always be kid-friendly. I told my kids to remain calm if they heard words they are not allowed to say. There’s no need to point it out to me. It was helpful to prepare the kids for this so they were not shocked.
Have fun!
The ball looks like a formal affair, and feels formal, until it’s time for dinner. Then, everyone loosens up, hits the dance floor, and enjoys the evening. It really is a fun time and is meant to be a great evening of celebrating history and service.
Celebrate with Family When You Can
Just as the small moments together reveal the strength of family bonds, sharing big events like a Marine Corps birthday ball cements the value of time spent together.
Allowing families to witness the camaraderie shared among those who serve also leaves a lasting impact. Taking the whole family to the Marine Corps ball is a wonderful way to cap off a military career.
About Jaimi Erickson
Jaimi is a mom of 4, military wife, and writer. She blogs about motherhood, kids activities and homemaking tips at The Stay-at-Home Mom Survival Guide. Connect with her on Instagram, Facebook or Pinterest.
