Tradition, patriotism, and a resounding cry of “Oorah” filled the air at the Pointe West Country Club recently, as the local community gathered to honor a quarter-millennium of military history. Hosted by the Indian River Detachment Marine Corps League, the annual Marine Corps Ball served as a spirited tribute to the 250th birthday of the United States Marine Corps, commemorating its establishment by the Continental Congress on November 10, 1775.
The evening was defined by what Commandant Dwight Harris described as the “Three C’s”: Ceremony, Celebration, and Comradeship. The event brought together generations of service members and their families, all embodying the Corps’ enduring motto, Semper Fidelis (Always Faithful).
The festivities commenced with a solemn invocation led by Marine Corps Chaplain Frank Baudo, who requested protection for active-duty Marines and blessings for the league. The Sebastian High School Navy JROTC provided a dignified presentation of the colors, followed by the National Anthem and a reading of the original Marine Corps charter.
A poignant highlight of the evening was the recitation of the poem Toast to the Flag by Mike Bodnar. Following the reading, Bodnar drew the room’s attention to a small table set for two at the front of the hall—one place setting for a Marine and one for a Navy corpsman—dedicated to prisoners of war and those missing in action.
The symbolism of the table served as a stark reminder of the sacrifices made by service members. The small table represented the frailty of a prisoner, while a lemon slice signified their bitter fate and salt represented the tears of waiting families. An overturned glass and an empty chair honored those who could not be present to toast with their comrades.
The gathered guests observed a moment of silence to honor POWs, those missing in action, and local veterans who had passed away since the previous ball. Among those remembered was Capt. Charles Tobias, a well-known Vero Beach resident and the founder of Pusser’s Rum. The solemnity of the moment was marked by the playing of “Taps” and the ringing of a ship’s bell.
Transitioning from remembrance to celebration, the evening continued with one of the Corps’ most cherished traditions: the cake-cutting ceremony. Symbolizing the passing of experience and knowledge to the next generation, the first slices of cake were shared between the oldest Marine present, Frank Baudo, and the youngest, Jeff Palleschi.
The night concluded with high spirits, including a traditional toast made with a secret-recipe “Marine Corps punch,” dinner, dancing, and the recognition of various divisions and service branches.
For residents interested in connecting with the local veteran community, the Indian River Detachment Marine Corps League holds its meetings at 7 p.m. on the fourth Thursday of every month. The gatherings take place at the Voices for Veterans of Indian River County.
For more information on the detachment and upcoming events, visit mclirc.org.
