November 10, 2025 marks the 250th birthday of the United States Marine Corps (USMC). This remarkable milestone celebrates two and a half centuries of service, sacrifice, and brotherhood.
From the battlefields of the Revolutionary War to modern missions around the world, the USMC has remained steadfast in their duty to protect and defend our nation. Their motto of semper fidelis (“always faithful”) continues to symbolize their unwavering loyalty to our country.
As we celebrate and honor the courage of U.S. Marines past and present, we also recognize the ongoing battles many face today, like serious health conditions that stem from their time in the military.
At Sokolove Law, our mesothelioma law firm is proud to stand beside those who have stood for us — including the many U.S. Marine Corps veterans now facing illnesses caused by asbestos exposure during their service.
When Is the U.S. Marine Corps Birthday?
On November 10, 1775, the U.S. Marine Corps was founded at Tun Tavern in Philadelphia when the Continental Congress ordered the creation of two battalions of U.S. Marines to serve both at sea and on land.
As the American colonies were preparing for war against Great Britain, Congress recognized the need for a group of skilled soldiers who could support naval operations and carry out landings from ships.
Led by Captain Samuel Nicholas, the first commissioned officer of the Continental Marines, these early soldiers quickly proved their value and established a fierce reputation for discipline and courage that has endured for 250 years.
What began as a small, specialized fighting force in a Philadelphia tavern has since grown into one of the most elite military branches in the world.
“On November 10, 1775, a Corps of Marines was created by a resolution of Continental Congress. Since that date many thousand men have borne the name ‘Marine.’ In memory of them it is fitting that we who are Marines should commemorate the birthday of our corps by calling to mind the glories of its long and illustrious history.”
– John Lejeune, Major General Commandant
Why Does the U.S. Marine Corps Have Two Birthdays?
After the Revolutionary War, the U.S. Marine Corps was disbanded for 15 years. However, the group was reestablished by Congress on July 11, 1798. For many years, this date was quietly recognized as the Corps’ anniversary.
That all changed in 1921. Major Edwin North McClellan, who led the Corps’ early historical division, proposed restoring November 10 as the official U.S. Marine Corps birthday — the date the original Continental Marines were formed in 1775.
Commandant John A. Lejeune approved the idea, and since then, the U.S. Marine Corps has proudly celebrated November 10 as their official birthday.
How to Celebrate the United States Marine Corps Birthday
Every year, USMC members who are active duty, reserve, and veterans celebrate the United States Marine Corps birthday with ceremonies, parades, and the birthday ball, a tradition dating back to 1925.
There are also many ways for members of the public to celebrate:
- Call or text a U.S. Marine in your life to thank them for their service
- Donate or volunteer with veteran support organizations that assist U.S. Marines and their families
- Visit a U.S. Marine Corps memorial or museum, like the National Museum of the Marine Corps in Virginia
- Share a message of gratitude online using hashtags like #HappyBirthdayMarines or #USMC250
Even small acts of appreciation can go a long way in recognizing the men and women who’ve given so much for our country.
The Risk of Asbestos Exposure for U.S. Marine Corps Veterans
For much of the 20th century, members of the U.S. Marine Corps were regularly exposed to asbestos, a toxic mineral once used in ships, barracks, bases, and vehicles for its heat-resistant properties.
From serving aboard U.S. Navy ships to maintaining aircraft or working in base facilities, countless U.S. Marines came into contact with asbestos-containing materials — and they were often unaware of the health risks.
Asbestos can lead to serious illnesses decades later, including:
- Mesothelioma
- Asbestosis
- Lung Cancer
Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive cancer that often forms in the lining of the lungs or abdomen. Because asbestos was widely used in the military, veterans make up 33% of all mesothelioma diagnoses.
It can take 20 to 50 years for asbestos-related diseases to develop, so many veterans are only now being diagnosed.
USMC VA Benefits & Compensation for Mesothelioma
Support is available for USMC veterans diagnosed with mesothelioma, including VA benefits for those who were exposed to asbestos during their service.
USMC veterans with mesothelioma may qualify for:
- Disability Compensation: Mesothelioma has a 100% disability rating, meaning veterans may be eligible for monthly payments worth $3,930 or more.
- Health Care: Veterans can access treatment from some of the nation’s leading mesothelioma specialists through the VA health care system.
U.S. Marine Corps veterans may also be eligible for additional compensation from asbestos trust funds and mesothelioma lawsuits, which are filed against companies that made asbestos-containing products or sold them to the military.
Compensation from a mesothelioma claim can help with medical bills, lost wages from being unable to work, and other expenses — all while securing your family’s financial future.
"Veterans have a right to hold responsible the companies that produced and sold asbestos-containing materials to the military. Filing an asbestos legal claim does not impact VA benefits."
– Ricky LeBlanc, VA-Accredited Attorney at Sokolove Law
Sokolove Law: Fighting for U.S. Marine Corps Veterans Nationwide
For over 45 years, Sokolove Law has proudly stood beside U.S. veterans and their families. Our mesothelioma lawyers have helped thousands of service members secure compensation and justice after being exposed to asbestos during their military careers.
We have VA-accredited attorneys on staff who can help you prepare your VA claims and take legal action for the harm you’ve suffered.
Our mesothelioma lawyers have:
- The ability to help families in all 50 states
- No upfront costs or hourly fees
- Recovered more than $5.3 Billion for families affected by mesothelioma, including over $1.3 Billion for U.S. military veterans
If you or a loved one served in the U.S. Marine Corps and has been diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease like mesothelioma, don’t wait to take action.
Call (800) 647-3434 now or fill out our contact form to learn more about your legal rights. Our team is available 24/7, and there’s no cost to speak with us.
