As the United States Marine Corps approaches its 250th birthday on November 10, 2025, preparations are underway across the nation. Marines have hosted Marine Weeks in cities like Nashville and Atlanta, showcasing equipment displays, band performances, and community engagements to honor the Corps' history. Nationwide events include parades, ceremonies, and flyovers, with a White House celebration highlighting the milestone. These activities emphasize the Corps' legacy of service while preparing for future challenges through training innovations and recruitment drives. Amid these efforts, several Birthday Balls feature distinguished guest speakers who embody Marine values worth pointing out.
Maximilian Uriarte at Quantico Security Battalion Ball
The Security Battalion Ball at Marine Corps Base Quantico stands out as a key event in the 250th celebrations. Scheduled for next month, it draws active-duty Marines and veterans to reflect on shared experiences. Uriarte serves as the guest of honor, offering insights from his time in uniform.
Maximilian Uriarte enlisted in the Marine Corps as an 0351 Assaultman and served in Hawaii before deploying for two tours in Iraq between 2007 and 2009. After his service, he created the popular webcomic Terminal Lance, which captures the daily realities of Marine life with humor. His work has expanded into books and films, making him a voice for modern veterans
Gen. James N. Mattis at Marines Memorial, San Francisco
The 250th Marine Corps Birthday Ball at the Marines Memorial Club in San Francisco takes place on November 8, 2025. This venue hosts a formal gathering with traditions like the cake-cutting ceremony. Retired Gen. James N. Mattis appears as the guest of honor, sharing leadership lessons from his career.
James N. Mattis enlisted in the Marine Corps Reserve in 1969 at age 18 and rose through the ranks over four decades. He commanded forces in the Persian Gulf War, Afghanistan, and Iraq, earning nicknames for his tactical expertise (such as “Chaos” or “Mad Dog”). Mattis later served as the 26th Secretary of Defense from 2017 to 2019, focusing on military readiness and alliance
Maj. Gen. George B. Rowell at Wings Over the Rockies Museum, Denver
Denver's Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum hosts the United States Marine Corps 250th Birthday Ball Celebration on November 9, 2025. The event includes a seated dinner and supports sponsored Marines at tables. Maj. Gen. George B. Rowell delivers the keynote address, tying current operations to the Corps' heritage.
George B. Rowell IV graduated with honors from the United States Naval Academy in 1992 and commissioned into the Marine Corps. He advanced to major general and assumed duties as Director of Strategic Planning and Policy (J5) for U.S. Indo-Pacific Command in June 2025. His roles have included deputy commander positions, emphasizing regional security.
Col. Harvey "Barney" Barnum Jr. at Tun Tavern 100th Ball, Philadelphia
Philadelphia's Bellevue Hotel serves as the site for the 100th Marine Corps Birthday Ball on November 10, 2025, recreating the first such event from 1925. Part of broader Homecoming 250 activities, it features a reception, dinner, and dancing. Col. Harvey "Barney" Barnum Jr. joins as a special guest speaker, alongside another Medal of Honor recipient.
Harvey Curtiss Barnum Jr. was born in 1940 in Cheshire, Connecticut, and commissioned after college. As a first lieutenant in Vietnam in 1965, he took command under fire, leading his unit to safety and earning the Medal of Honor. He retired as a colonel after 27 years, becoming the fourth Marine so honored in that war. His namesake has even been used for U.S. Navy Destroyer.
Celebrating 250 Years
These Birthday Balls underscore the Marine Corps' commitment to tradition amid its 250th year. Preparations extend beyond celebrations, with initiatives like updated training programs and partnerships to build resilience. As Marines gather, they honor past achievements while gearing up for the demands of tomorrow.
