Marine Corps Detachment No. 284, Bethlehem, and Lehigh Valley Detachment No. 296 met Nov. 10 to celebrate the 250th birthday of the United States Marine Corps at the Marine Corps monument at Cedar Beach Park, 24th and Hamilton streets, Allentown.

The Marine Corps was founded in Philadelphia’s Tun Tavern Nov. 10, 1775.

The Continental Congress commissioned Samuel Nicholas to raise two battalions of Marines, as the British Navy had already established the value of marines on their war ships.

As is the usual case this time of year, it was a cool and blustery day at the monument, but that did not dim the enthusiasm of the former and retired Marines present.

Marine Carl Schroeder, commandant, Bethlehem Detachment No. 284, welcomed those attending the celebration.

The Pledge of Allegiance was led by retired USMC Master Sgt. Roz Schroeder.

Marine William Stoudt, Lehigh Valley Detachment No. 296, read General Lejeune’s birthday message.

The Marine Corps League’s National Commandant’s birthday message was read by Marine Glenn Rader, commandant, Bethlehem Detachment No. 284.

The color guard was from Lehigh Valley Detachment No. 296.

USMC Captain Ralph Brodt was the bugler for the event,

Brodt played the Marine’s Hymn as the gathered Marines sang along.

Joe Malia, chaplain, Lehigh Valley Detachment No. 296 provided the closing prayer.