VAUS marks three recognitions connected to the U.S. Armed Forces
Veterans Among US (VAUS) welcomes UCOP colleagues to join them in celebrating three November recognitions with connections to the U.S. Armed Forces.
249th Anniversary of the U.S. Marine Corps
The U.S. Marine Corps was founded on Nov. 10, 1775, when the Continental Congress created two Marine battalions. Since then, Marines have shown extraordinary courage in defending our nation at home and abroad. The Marine Corps’ birthday has been celebrated each year since the early 1900s, bringing together Marines from all generations to celebrate the Corps’ traditions with deep respect.
The Marine Corps birthday is also a time to honor the sacrifices of those who gave their lives in defense of freedom. It is a day to remember the history, achievements and bravery of all Marines, past and present.
Marine Corps birthday traditions
In 1921, Major General John A. Lejeune, the commandant of the Marine Corps, established November 10 as the official Marine Corps birthday. His message is read at each celebration, and the current commandant sends an annual message.
The day is typically marked by formal dinners, dancing and a special cake-cutting ceremony. The cake, cut with a Mameluke sword, symbolizes the Marine Corps’ role as protectors of peace. The first piece goes to the guest of honor, followed by a piece passed from the oldest Marine to the youngest, symbolizing the passing of wisdom through generations.
Fun fact: The Mameluke sword is a ceremonial sword carried by United States Marine Corps officers. The sword was presented to Marine 1stLt Presley O’Bannon by the Pasha of Tripoli in 1804, during the First Barbary Pirate War. The Mameluke Sword is the oldest weapon still in use in the United States arsenal and remains an important symbol of authority and leadership.
Veterans Day
Veterans Day, originally known as Armistice Day, was established to mark the end of World War I and to honor those who had died in military service. It was formally recognized on the “11th hour, of the 11th day, of the 11th month” in 1918. In 1954, this recognition was reframed as Veterans Day to recognize all veterans from all wars.
Today, Veterans Day is an opportunity to express gratitude to those who have served in the military for their sacrifices. We can show our appreciation by writing heartfelt letters, spending time with veterans and listening to their stories, volunteering with local veterans’ organizations and donating to nonprofits that support their health. Simple actions, like attending a Veterans Day ceremony or flying the American flag, also demonstrate respect and solidarity.
On November 11, VAUS expresses our sincere gratitude to our veterans for their brave and selfless service to our country. We extend our heartfelt thanks to every neighbor and University of California employee who has worn the uniform of the United States Armed Forces. Thank you for your courage, your dedication, and the extraordinary sacrifices you and your families have made in the name of freedom, liberty and peace.
Veterans Day facts
- There are 18.6 million veterans in the United States as of 2024 — nine million who are over the age of 65 and 1.7 million who are women.
- California is home to the most living veterans, with over 1.8 million.
Call for Veterans Day highlights
In honor of Veterans Day, VAUS is celebrating veterans’ invaluable contributions by creating a Veterans Day collage, which will be shared on UCPath TV, in the UCPath Spotlight newsletter and in Link. To participate:
- Upload a high-resolution photo of yourself during your time in service, or a photo of a veteran loved one during their service to this Box folder
- Send the following information to Virgina Nixon by Nov. 12
— Branch of service
— Rank
— Years served
— Job title (if a UCOP employee)
— A 1-2 sentence reflection on what it means to be a veteran
Native American Heritage Month
As we observe Native American Heritage Month (NAHM) this November, we recognize the important contributions of Native American communities throughout history. This is a time to reflect on their culture, traditions and lasting impact on our nation.
Native Americans have played a key role in the U.S. military, serving as scouts, code talkers and soldiers in every major conflict since the Revolutionary War. Notably, during World War II, the Navajo Nation helped secure military communications by using their language as a code. Despite facing discrimination, Native American service members have shown exceptional bravery and dedication.
Let’s take a moment to honor these contributions, celebrate Native American culture and continue working towards a future that respects all Americans’ diverse heritage.
Facts about Native Americans and the military
- Early involvement: Native Americans served as scouts and soldiers from the Revolutionary War through the Lewis and Clark expedition.
- Code talkers: During WWII, Native American tribes, especially the Navajo, used their languages to create unbreakable codes.
- High service rates: Native Americans have served in the military at higher rates than most other ethnic groups.
- Notable conflicts: Native Americans served in major wars including WWI, WWII, the Korean War and Vietnam.
- Medal of Honor recipients: Several Native American soldiers, like Master Sergeant Woodrow Wilson Keeble, have earned the Medal of Honor for their valor.
Tags: Marine Corps birthday, Native American Heritage Month, U.S. Marine Corps, Veterans Among US, Veterans Day