Photo By Sgt. Seth Starr | It is customary for a ceremonial cutting of the cake to be shared between the youngest...... read more read more
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CARLSBAD, Calif. - Guests and Sailors with I Marine Expeditionary Force celebrated the 239th Navy Birthday Ball at the Omni Resort La Costa in Carlsbad, California, Oct. 10, 2014.
A speech explaining the importance of paying homage to missing Sailors and prisoners of war lost in times of conflict set a tone of pride and legacy for the rest of the evening.
Guest Speaker, The Honorable Juan M. Garcia III, Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Manpower and Reserve Affairs, gave notable mention to the Sailors of I MEF and their relationship with the Marines they work alongside.
Garcia spoke of the accomplishments of naval heroes and revisited the history of Sailors abroad in combat theaters spanning from the early 1800's to current conflicts.
"Recognize our proud history and strive for excellence and success," said Garcia. "Overcome the obstacles before you, as your predecessors once did and pass on the heritage that was bestowed upon you."
As the night progressed, the oldest and youngest Sailors stepped out from the crowd to start the cake cutting ceremony. This Navy tradition symbolizes the passing of knowledge and experience from the old to the newest generation of service members.
Command Master Chief Michael Smith, Command Master Chief for I MEF, said that remembering the long and glorious history of the Navy is key to becoming a successful Sailor.
"One of the best things about the Navy is our heritage," said Smith. "You can't know where you're going unless you know where you've come from, where you are now. Some of these young men and women are going to take my position in the future and it's important they remember."
The ceremony was followed by a social event in which Sailors and guests could intermingle and celebrate their heritage together.
"It's been my honor to represent and speak on behalf of all my shipmates at home and across the seas. I've loved being a part of the Navy for these past 28 years and working alongside these amazing Sailors," said Smith. "I cannot wait to see what the future has in store for us all."
| Date Taken: | 10.10.2014 |
| Date Posted: | 10.15.2014 14:17 |
| Story ID: | 145127 |
| Location: | CARLSBAD, CALIFORNIA, US |
| Web Views: | 71 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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