Naval Medical Center Portsmouth (NMCP) staff celebrated the United States Navy’s 243rd birthday during a cake cutting ceremony on Oct. 11.
“It is customary at the Navy birthday celebration worldwide to cut the traditional cake, honoring the birth of our nation's Navy,” said HMC Andiria Gerovac, the ceremony emcee. “The first piece of the cake is given to the oldest Sailor aboard by the youngest Sailor present, signifying the enthusiasm of the young as they carry our Navy into the future. The second piece of the cake is given to the youngest Sailor aboard by the oldest Sailor present, signifying the passing of experience and knowledge from the old to the young in our Navy.”