Hoist a Mug to the Few and the Proud: Celebrating the Marine Corps Birthday with Valor and Brotherhood

Published by Old Salt Coffee | November 10, 2024

At Old Salt Coffee, we know there’s a special bond between Sailors and Marines—a bond forged in the heat of battle and solidified through shared sacrifice. As we celebrate the 249th Marine Corps Birthday, we hoist our mugs to the bravery, honor, and fierce loyalty of the United States Marine Corps. It’s not just a birthday; it’s a salute to a legacy of courage and camaraderie that stretches back to 1775.

And sure, we know the Navy has jokingly been called the "taxi drivers" for the Marines. But hey, if you’re going to be a taxi driver, you’d better be the best—and that’s what the Navy is! After all, who else can deliver the fiercest warriors on Earth to the fight, complete with air support, artillery, amphibious assault capabilities, and a hot cup of Joe? The Navy-Marine Corps team exemplifies this partnership through the Marine Expeditionary Units (MEUs). These elite units—there are seven in total—serve as forward-deployed rapid-response forces. At any given time, three MEUs are typically deployed globally, ready to tackle any mission. Their Special Operations Capable (SOC) designation underscores their ability to conduct high-stakes operations like direct action, special reconnaissance, and amphibious assaults, making them one of the most versatile and formidable tools in the Marine Corps’ arsenal.

Sergeant John Basilone: The Hero of Guadalcanal

In October 1942, during the Battle of Guadalcanal, Sergeant John Basilone, a machine gun section leader with the 1st Marine Division, displayed extraordinary courage. Under relentless enemy fire and low on ammunition, Basilone and his men held their ground against a determined Japanese assault.

When supplies ran out, he braved enemy lines to resupply his team. Despite wounds from shrapnel, he continued to man the guns, keeping the enemy at bay and allowing Navy Sailors aboard nearby ships to regroup and provide critical support to the island campaign. For his valor, Basilone was awarded the Medal of Honor, making him one of the most celebrated Marines of World War II.

In honor of his legacy, the U.S. Navy commissioned the USS John Basilone (DDG 122), an Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer, on November 9, 2024. This state-of-the-art warship stands as a testament to Basilone's bravery and the enduring bond between the Navy and Marine Corps.

Learn more about his incredible heroism at The National WWII Museum and Military.com.

Just as John Basilone’s bravery inspired a generation during World War II, Lance Corporal Kyle Carpenter’s actions in Afghanistan remind us that this legacy of courage continues. Carpenter, the most recent Marine to receive the Medal of Honor, exemplifies the same selflessness and commitment that Basilone demonstrated decades earlier.

Lance Corporal Kyle Carpenter: A Modern-Day Hero

On November 21, 2010, in Marjah, Helmand Province, Afghanistan, Lance Corporal Kyle Carpenter and a fellow Marine were manning a rooftop security position when the enemy initiated a daylight attack with hand grenades. Without hesitation, and with complete disregard for his own safety, Carpenter moved toward the grenade in an attempt to shield his fellow Marine from the deadly blast.

When the grenade detonated, his body absorbed the brunt of the explosion, severely wounding him but saving the life of his comrade. For his conspicuous gallantry, Carpenter was awarded the Medal of Honor on June 19, 2014, becoming the youngest living recipient of the nation's highest military honor.

Carpenter’s bravery serves as a modern-day connection to the valor of Marines like Basilone, proving that the spirit of the Corps remains unbreakable through generations.

Explore more about his courageous actions at The Headstrong Project and We Are The Mighty.

A Bond Forged in Battle

The Marine Corps wouldn’t be what it is without the Navy—and vice versa. From the stormy beaches of Iwo Jima to the daring riverine operations of Vietnam, Marines and Sailors have fought side by side, often relying on each other for survival. Whether it’s the Navy Corpsman who saves lives on the battlefield or the Marine who defends a shipmate in harm’s way, this bond is one of mutual respect and fierce loyalty.

Explore the long-standing history of Marine-Navy collaboration in combat at Marine Corps History Division and their pivotal roles in naval operations at Naval History and Heritage Command.

As we celebrate this Marine Corps birthday, let’s remember the sacrifices and heroism of Marines like Sergeant Basilone and Lance Corporal Carpenter, who embody the spirit of Semper Fidelis—always faithful.

Hoist a Mug to the Corps

This November 10th, we invite you to hoist a mug of Liberty Call coffee in honor of the Marines. Each bag of Liberty Call supports the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society, a nonprofit dedicated to helping Sailors and Marines in need. Together, we keep their legacy of service alive and strong.

To mark this milestone, watch the Official Marine Corps 249th Birthday video and feel the pride and tradition that define the Marine Corps.

Let’s celebrate with the words that echo in every Marine’s heart:

“Happy Birthday, Marines! Here’s to another year of honor, courage, and commitment!”

From all of us at Old Salt Coffee—Semper Fi, Marines!