U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Aysha Merrill, reads General John A. Lejeune's Birthday Message during the 249th U.S. Marine Corps cake-cutting ceremony on U.S. Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island, S.C. on Nov. 7, 2023. The pageant and cake-cutting ceremony signifies the passing of tradition from one generation to the next, honoring men and women who have served since 1775. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Staff Sgt. Brendan Custer)
Recruits with Kilo Company, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, conduct their 15k hike on Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, S.C., Nov. 2, 2024. The 15k hike is the last event recruits conduct before they receive their Eagle Globe and Anchor and officially become United States Marines. (U.S. Marine Corps video by Lance Cpl. Van Hoang)
