Danya and Brandon and Baby Lex

With the yummy turkey and stuffing behind us, and many days of leftovers ahead, I would like to take the opportunity to say a few things about today's usual event. Black Friday has become a staple of our society and that is sad. People horde into stores to find "deals" that really aren't deals and thus begins the shopping season. Why not take Black Friday off and not shop this year? Instead, write a heartfelt note in your Christmas cards or bake a gift. Materialism is not the point of this season. Togetherness, love and family are what we should be focusing on. Not the gifts under the tree.

 

Danya and Brandon and Lex

Saturday night (after a full day of Final Drill - which Gy Chouinard tied for High Hat with a score of 96!!!) we got all dressed up and headed off to the Ball. Since we didn't go last year, we were excited about this one. The AWTF was decked out quite nicely, with an ice sculpture even. The music was varied, if a little loud. The food was good and the drinks were reasonable. All in all, it was a good night. The Commandant's message made me cry - again. We left at about 2130 and picked up sleeping Lex. I believe we were home and in bed by 2300. It was a good date night. My dress was a huge success, lots of compliments.

 

Danya and Brandon

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