Marine Corps celebrates 246th birthday

Veterans of the U.S. Marine Corps celebrated together on Nov. 10,

  • By Harry Sayer
  • | 7:47 a.m. November 11, 2021
  • Sarasota
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Veterans of the U.S. Marine Corps assembled at Marina Jack on Nov. 10 to celebrate the institution's 246th birthday. 

The annual luncheon had dozens of veterans and active duty members meeting for a luncheon that paid tribute to all who served. Founder Tom Smith welcomed the assembled audience and led them through the program. 

Ralph Franklin, who has traditionally been the group's oldest member and the ceremonial cake cutter for the luncheon, recently passed away at 101. In tribute, his sons Andy and Bruce Franklin led the ceremonial cake cutting and helped pass out slices to veterans. 

Tom Smith welcomes the veterans.
Tom Smith welcomes the veterans.
World War II veteran Garland Reedy and Vonda Klopfenstein
World War II veteran Garland Reedy and Vonda Klopfenstein
Tom Smith and World War II veteran Bill Burchette
Tom Smith and World War II veteran Bill Burchette
Andy and Bruce Franklin with Tom McElheny, Lin Hall and Codi Simon
Andy and Bruce Franklin with Tom McElheny, Lin Hall and Codi Simon
The celebration had an anniversary birthday cake.
The celebration had an anniversary birthday cake.
Many veterans pitched in for a 50/50 raffle.
Many veterans pitched in for a 50/50 raffle.
Ben Weiss, Alex Vanston and Cooper Bowditch
Ben Weiss, Alex Vanston and Cooper Bowditch
Andy and Bruce Franklin cut and pass out cake.
Andy and Bruce Franklin cut and pass out cake.
Andy and Bruce Franklin cut and pass out cake.
Andy and Bruce Franklin cut and pass out cake.
Kevin Calhoun and Tom Meyers
Kevin Calhoun and Tom Meyers
Chris and Susan Reedy
Chris and Susan Reedy
Many members brought their veterans hats and covers.
Many members brought their veterans hats and covers.
Will and Bill Cassada with Stanley Ptak
Will and Bill Cassada with Stanley Ptak
William Slater and Ron Campian
William Slater and Ron Campian
Sophia Hoffman and Bob Piel
Sophia Hoffman and Bob Piel

 

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