Jersey Shore Detachment 250th Marine Corps Birthday Celebration

Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1838 will honor the life and legacy of General Alfred M. Gray, Jr. (1928–2024)—the 29th Commandant of the United States Marine Corps,  —at the Marine Corps Birthday Ball on Monday, November 10, 2025, at Spring Lake Manor (415 NJ-71, Spring Lake, NJ). The event commemorates the 250th Birthday of the United States Marine Corps, founded on November 10, 1775, and will spotlight General Gray’s enduring impact on Marine warfighting doctrine, leadership, and professional military education.

“General Al Gray embodied the very best of the Marine Corps—humility, grit, and uncompromising devotion to his Marines,” said Robert Beavis, member, VFW Post 1838 and Jersey Shore Marine Corps League. “As we celebrate the Corps’ birthday, we also celebrate the leader who modernized our warfighting philosophy and reminded us that every Marine is, first and foremost, a rifleman.”

General Gray served as Commandant from 1987 to 1991, institutionalizing maneuver warfare through FMFM-1: Warfighting and establishing Marine Corps University to strengthen professional military education across all ranks. Known as the “Marines’ Marine,” he emphasized people over hardware, decentralized leadership, and readiness—principles that continue to guide the Corps and inspire leaders in every field.

“General Gray’s legacy is more than history—it is a living doctrine,” said Colonel R Beavis, USMC (Ret.), Ball Chair. “We’re proud to honor General Gray and the Marines who carry his standards forward every day.”

Event Highlights:

• Date/Time: Monday, November 10, 2025, 17:00 (5 PM) – 21:00 (9 PM)

• Location: Spring Lake Manor, 415 NJ-71, Spring Lake, NJ

• Ceremonies: Traditional cake-cutting, reading of General Lejeune’s and CMC’s message, tribute to General Gray, colors & honors. Music provided by JSOUL

• Tickets/Sponsorship: 80.00 per person; donations/sponsors desired. Venmo @colbeaver

• Attire: military dress/ suit or sport jacket with collared shirt.

• Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1838, 30 Ridge Ave, Manasquan, serves veterans, service members, and families, providing camaraderie, advocacy, and support programs that honor service and empower successful transitions.

• Pay by Venmo to:  @colbeaver

• All payments due by 1 November 2025

• Advise by email the full name of attendees to: 250usmc@gmail.com

• Invitees: USMC and USN Corpsman