“From the Halls of Montezuma, to the Shores of Tripoli …”

Almost everyone recognizes the opening lines of the famous Marine Corps Hymn. But did you know the Marine Corps is older than the United States?

The United States Marine Corps was founded at Tun Tavern in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on Nov. 10, 1775, nearly eight months before the signing of the Declaration of Independence.  And since that time, the Marine Corps has been the “first to fight for right and freedom.”

Every year, all-around the world on Nov. 10, Marines, both active and retired (“Once a Marine, always a Marine!”) gather together to celebrate the occasion with a Marine Corps birthday party, perhaps even a full formal ball.

This tradition is alive and well locally. 

Marines living in Southside Virginia have formed a group who call themselves the “Farmville Jarheads.” One of the many nicknames for Marines, “Jarheads,” along with “Devil Dogs” and “Leathernecks,” are some of the most well-known; and they will be hosting a local Marine Corps birthday party.

The Farmville Jarheads 2018 Marine Corps birthday party will be held Saturday, Nov. 10, beginning at 6 p.m., at Charley’s Waterfront Café in Farmville. 

All Marines, as well as family and friends of Marines, are invited to attend, of course. This year we’re also inviting the general public.

We are especially excited about this year’s event as for the first time ever, we’re having a keynote speaker. His name is Jim Land and he is a living legend. Land is the founder of the Marine Corps Scout Sniper program.  Not only is he one of the greatest marksmen in our country’s history, he has personally trained some of the greatest snipers in the world. Anyone interested in military history, or marksmanship, will want to come hear this national treasure.

The cost is $25 which includes an all-u-can-eat buffet and nonalcoholic beverages. A cash bar will also be available.

This event is expected to fill to capacity, so RSVPs are required by Nov. 5.  To RSVP or for more information call (434) 391-1284, email me or visit “Farmville Jarheads” on Facebook.

Even if you cannot attend the birthday party, we’re asking all Marines and/or their families to please share with us your contact information.  We would like to alert you to other events.  The Farmville Jarheads meet regularly for fellowship and great conversations.  We often have interesting guest speakers, typically on military subjects.

Kerby Moore is a proud Marine and one of the organizers of Farmville Jarheads. He can be reached via email at kerby.moore@edwardjones.com.