The annual celebration of the Marine Corps’ birthday was back after a one-year absence and those who celebrated didn’t miss a beat.
Each year on Nov. 10, members of the Marine Corps League Downriver Detachment, their families and friends gather together for an all-day party, one that is fun for all, yet respectful of the Marine tradition.
This year’s event drew slightly under 200 people to the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post No. 9283 in Southgate to celebrate the creation of the Marine Corps 246 years ago.
In addition to Marines, the attendees included the Downriver Detachment’s Women’s Auxiliary members, veterans from other branches of the military, community members, and even several children.
One of the things the event is known for is the fact that it lasts all day and includes lots of food.
Marine Jeff Gillies began planning the event in August, right up until the day of the event, along with assistance from six to nine members of the Birthday Committee. Women’s Auxiliary President Marcy Oakley and her members are credited with performing numerous activities, including greeting guests at the door to working in the kitchen and serving food.
Jeff Hannak, a past commandant and the event’s public relations coordinator, said part of its success can be attributed to area restaurants who supported the event, as well as members who presented the food throughout the day.
He said some of the restaurants included the Hungarian Rhapsody in Southgate, Papa Romano’s pizzeria in Allen Park, Galindo’s A Taste of Mexico in Southgate, and Liberati’s Italian Deli & Bakery in Allen Park.
Adding to the impressive food presentation was Black Rock Bar and Grill in Woodhaven, which presented a dinner that included steak bites, mashed potatoes, and macaroni and cheese, served from 4 p.m. until around 10 p.m.
In all, Hannak estimated that between 60 and 75 sponsors, including several Downriver businesses, contributed by donating food, raffle items, and gift cards for guests who attended the event.
One of the day’s highlights occurred at 7 p.m., when Past Commandant Ron Zamensky and Commandant John Daggett announced the Marine Corps heritage and tradition of the POW/MIA cake-cutting ceremony. Daggett was given the honor of cutting the cake.
In accordance with tradition, the first piece was placed on the empty POW/MIA table, since prisoners of war and those missing in action can’t be physically present with their fellow Marines.
Then, the next piece went to the oldest Marine present, followed by the youngest Marine who attended the event.
This year, the oldest Marine was 94-year-old Mac McFarlane, who shared a few stories of his days in the service with active duty Marine Marcel Young, who at 25 was the youngest Marine present.
Hannak said the past three years have been difficult ones for members of the detachment. On Dec. 18, 2018, the detachment’s building at 1323 Eureka Road in Wyandotte was badly damaged in a huge fire that started in an adjacent building.
Originally the Marines had hopes of restoring their clubhouse, but those plans never came to fruition.
However, the night ended on a positive note, with Zamensky announcing that the Downriver Detachment would be moving to a new building, located on Fort Street, near Southfield Road, in Lincoln Park.
"all day" - Google News
November 15, 2021 at 09:47PM
https://ift.tt/3kEyZ5A
Veterans celebrate Marine Corps’ 246th birthday with all-day party in Southgate - Southgate News Herald
"all day" - Google News
https://ift.tt/35pEz2D
Bagikan Berita Ini
0 Response to "Veterans celebrate Marine Corps’ 246th birthday with all-day party in Southgate - Southgate News Herald"
Post a Comment