Danya and Brandon and Baby Lex

Back in 1775, the 2nd Continental Congress raised 2 Battalions of Marines on this day. Their headquarters was a tavern in Philadelphia until other arrangements could be made. Over the past 234 years, Marines have fought in every major battle and a few minor ones, earning a reputation for being solid fighters. They are the smallest of the Armed Forces, with a standing populace of 204,000 as of now. Women joined their ranks in 1918, starting with Opha Mae Johnson. They are often called America's 911 Force.

 

The Marine Corps Birthday wasn't celebrated on this day until 1921. General Lejuene made 10 November the official Birthday and detailed plans to have an annual Ball in that honor. Ever since then, on 10 Novemeber Marines around the world stop and pay tribute to their heritage. General Lejuene's message is read, as is one from the current Commandant. A cake is solemnly rolled out and sliced with a non-commissioned officer sword. The pieces are then distributed to the Oldest and Youngest Marines present, to signify the passing on of the generations. There is always a table dedicated to the fallen, where the place setting is inverted.

 

On this day, I ask you all to seek out a present or former Marine and give them thanks. Many pay far too dear a price for their service. I also remind you that tomorrow is Veteran's Day. Find a Vet and thank them. Many don't want fanfare. But all appreciate gratitude.

 

Semper Fidelis,

Danya Ozmore, Former Sergeant USMC

Brandon Ozmore, Gunnery Sergeant USMC

After yesterday's 80 degree humid, pumpkin rotting weather, maybe it'll act more like Fall now. There is heavy fog clinging to the oak trees, making for a very spooky sight. Just my kind of weather. I hope everyone remembered to "Fall Back" last night. We did and yet still tried to get up too early. Heehee. Now we can officially turn our sights towards Thanksgiving and Christmas. Although, Walmart seems to think we've been in that season for weeks. Weird. I urge everyone to remember what we have to be thankful for this year and ignore the rampant materialism that runs this time of year. This season is not about gifts and how many and how expensive. This season is about love and family and being thankful for what you have. Don't go shopping, spend time with family instead.

 

Danya and Brandon and Lex

With the big ONE fast approaching, I want to thank everyone for the pile of boxes and cards that have been pouring in. I have taken careful note of everything before I give it to him. As he gets older, we'll probably save everything for his actual birthday but this year, he doesn't particularly care. I was kinda hoping he'd walk by his birthday but he's on his own time schedule and he's not sharing. I can't wait to see if he tries to park the car in the garage sideways. I think he has those mischievious leanings...

 

Danya and Brandon and Lex

The best little bathtub drummer in South Carolina just might take his show on the road! The little man has taken a liking to drumming his fat hands on the edge of the tub. He notices the difference when his hands are wet and when they are dry. He likes it when mama participates too. Sometimes he even drums the water! He might just give Uncle Kyle a run for his money. Look for Lex's spectacular drum show in theaters soon.

 

Danya and Brandon and Lex