The Gator Detachment 2008 Marine Corps Birthday Ball

Saturday, November 8, 2008

Clarion Hotel and Conference Center
7417 Newberry Road, Gainesville FL 32609

  *** SEE PHOTOS FROM THE BALL AT THE BOTTOM OF THIS PAGE***

The Birthday Ball was a very nice event this year, attended by approximately 130 guests.  The social hour saw people arriving and mingling as the minutes counted down.  At 6:30pm, the ceremony began.  Officers escorted their wives in and the Guest of Honor, Young Marine Sergeant Major Kayle Hill, was escorted in by the Commandant.  Colors were posted and the traditional birthday ball messages were read - one from General LeJeune and the current message from General Conway.  We recognized the Fallen Comrades and then we had the traditional cake-cutting, where the oldest Marine passes the cake to the youngest Marine.  After retirement of the colors, the buffet was opened.  With London Broil, Baked Herb Chicken, Ceasar Salad, Seafood Salad, Oven Roasted New Potatoes, Vegetable Medley, Rolls and Butter, desserts and Birthday Cake, the chow was quite good.  Coffee and Teal were also provided.

As the meal was winding down, two Young Marines (PFC Hull and Sgt Collins) spoke about the Young Marine program, and then YM SgtMaj Kayle Hill took the podium to share her experiences in the program.  Essentially, she is the SgtMaj for all Young Marines in the state of Florida.  The Milton Lewis Young Marines and Bob Gasche (founding CO of the unit), recognized YM SgtMaj Hill as the 2008 Young Marine of the Year, and she will compete with others for that title at the Regimental (state), Division and National levels.  Hill also recognized a number of family, friends and Young Marine instructors that have had a positive influence in her life and her Young Marine career.

The Commandant conducted a few duties, including presentation of the Jim Yakubsin Vision Award to Scott DuPree and also the raffle drawing for a hand-made red and gold afghan made by Mary Hildebrande.  It was won by Bob Curti.   

When all formalities concluded, entertainment was turned over to Mark Copeland who also served in the Corps.  His energy and interaction with the crowd kept things going until after 11:00pm.  He has already been invited to attend our event next year and to provide entertainment.  

For those who were unable to come, I encourage you to mark your calendars for November 14, 2009 for the next GatorDet Marine Corps Birthday Ball.  Semper Fi.

  CLICK ON THE PHOTO TO VIEW

    THE BIRTHDAY BALL PHOTOS