Photo By Joseph Davila | Fredericksburg, Va. – Marine Corps Systems Command (MARCORSYSCOM) held its 250th...... read more read more
Fredericksburg, Va. – Marine Corps Systems Command (MARCORSYSCOM) held its 250th Birthday Ball on November 22, at the Fredericksburg Expo and Conference Center, Fredericksburg, Va. This year’s Marine Corps Ball honored 250 years of courage, honor, and the unwavering commitment that defines the Corps. Marines, civilians, and families came together for an evening of tradition, reflection, and camaraderie.
The Marine Corps Ball is held annually across commands to commemorate the founding of the Marine Corps on November 10, 1775. It remains one of the Corps’ most cherished traditions – an opportunity for Marines and their loved ones to honor their service, remember Marines’ sacrifices, and celebrate the values that unite every Marine.
More than 800 guests arrived in dress uniforms and formal attire and were welcomed in a vibrantly decorated ballroom filled with patriotic displays. The evening began with the playing of the Marine Corps birthday message video, and the receiving line led by Brig. Gen. Tamara L. Campbell, MARCORSYSCOM commander. Campbell welcomed and acknowledged Marines and guests for their presence before the official introduction to guest speaker, Lt. Gen. Melvin G. Carter, Deputy Commandant for Information.
“The birthday ball is always a special occasion, no matter what the location, the hour, or the venue that you choose to celebrate. We’re coming together each year to honor our legacy, enjoy our camaraderie, and reconnect with what binds us together as the Marine Corps. This night reminds us of who we are, what we do, and why we have done it so successfully for 250 years,” said Campbell. “As we navigate the new acquisition reforms, we need to be strategic, intentional, and flexible. In the new changes in how we do business, there is a lot of opportunity for positive change as we move forward, and I am confident you are the right folks to help us equip our Marines with the best systems and best gear that they so truly deserve,” Campbell added.
During opening remarks, Carter shared an insightful message highlighting the depth of the Marine experience. Following Carter’s remarks and presenting of the colors, the playing of the Marine Corps Hymn set a respectful tone as guests stood and sang the hymn to honor the Corps. The fallen comrade table was also highlighted, serving as a reminder of the ultimate sacrifices made by Marines throughout history and the ongoing selfless service to our country.
“It’s that table that sits upfront that’s empty, that no one sits at today. It’s the work that each one of you does, to ensure that the systems that we have meet mission needs, on time, every time. This is why that young Corporal can say, ‘I want to stay,” Carter stated.
Guests enjoyed a multi-course dinner accompanied by traditional toasts honoring the Corps, its legacy, and its Marines. After dinner, the command conducted the ceremonial cake cutting – one of the most revered traditions of the Marine Corps Ball. The ceremony featured the oldest and youngest Marine in attendance, symbolizing the passing of knowledge, wisdom, and responsibility from one generation to the next. Using the ceremonial sword, Carter cut the first slice of cake and presented it to Colonel Bradly J. Sams, who then passed it to Lance Corporal Rashaud J. Shanks displaying the continuity of the Marine Corps.
The Marine Corps Systems Command Ball stands as a testament to the values that define Marines, and the acquisition command of the Marine Corps; always ready to equip and sustain Marine forces with the most capable and cost-effective systems for current and future expeditionary and crisis-response operations.
| Date Taken: | 12.18.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 12.22.2025 10:24 |
| Story ID: | 554780 |
| Location: | QUANTICO, US |
| Web Views: | 8 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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