Goodfellow celebrates the 248th Marine Corps Birthday Ball Published Nov. 15, 2023 By Airman 1st Class Evelyn D'Errico 17th Training Wing Public Affairs GOODFELLOW AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- The Marine Corps Detachment Goodfellow held its 248th Marine Corps Birthday Ball at the McNease Convention Center, San Angelo, Texas on Nov. 10, 2023. The Marine Corps Ball has been claimed as a night to remember with a legacy that carries throughout generations of Marines. “Tonight we reflect on traditions of things endured,” said U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. Thomas Coyle, MCD Goodfellow commander. “A legacy formed by everyday Americans, who joined a cause greater than themselves.” The formal event honors Marine heritage established in 1921 when the 13th Commandant, Gen. John A. Lejeune, issued Marine Corps Order No. 47, Series 1921. Lejeune's order summarized the history, mission, and tradition of the warfighting organization. “In every battle and skirmish since the birth of our corps, Marines have acquitted themselves with the greatest distinction, winning new honors on each occasion until the term Marine has come to signify all that is highest in military efficiency and soldierly virtue.” It further directed the order to be read to all Marines, each year on 10 November to honor the founding of the Marine Corps. The 248th Marine Corps Ball was a celebration of history and tradition. Goodfellow celebrates the 248th Marine Corps Birthday Ball U.S. Marines with Marine Corps Detachment Goodfellow line up for the presentation of colors during the 248th Marine Corps Birthday Ball ceremony at the McNease Convention Center, San Angelo, Texas, Nov. 10, 2023. The 248th Marine Corps birthday ball honors past, present, and future Marines. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Evelyn J. D’Errico) Photo Details / Download Hi-Res Goodfellow celebrates the 248th Marine Corps Birthday Ball U.S. Marine Corps Pfc. Elliana Rios and Pfc. Jacob Sanchez-Meja, Marine Corps Detachment Goodfellow students, pose for a photo during the Goodfellow’s 248th Marine Corps Birthday Ball at the McNease Convention Center, San Angelo, Texas, Nov.10, 2023. The Marine Corps was founded on Nov. 10, 1775, and every year, Marines gather to celebrate the tradition of the Marine Corps Birthday. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Evelyn J. D’Errico) Photo Details / Download Hi-Res Goodfellow celebrates the 248th Marine Corps Birthday Ball U.S. Marine Corps Pfc. Anthony Rodriguez, 312th Training Squadron student, salutes the official party during the 248th Marine Corps Birthday Ball at the McNease Convention Center, San Angelo, Texas, on Nov. 10, 2023. Marine Corps units hold birthday celebrations every year to reflect on the traditions, history and legacy of the Marine Corps. (U.S. Air Force Evelyn J. D’Errico) Photo Details / Download Hi-Res Goodfellow celebrates the 248th Marine Corps Birthday Ball U.S. Marine Corps Master Sgt. William Bockelman II, retired, gives a speech at the 248th Marine Corps Birthday Ball ceremony at the McNease Convention Center, San Angelo, Texas, Nov. 10, 2023. The Marine Corps Birthday Ball is a time-honored tradition celebrating past, present and future Marines. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Evelyn J. D’Errico) Photo Details / Download Hi-Res