Buffalo Ridge Leathernecks to celebrate U.S. Marine Corps birthday

Julie Buntjer, The Daily Globe, Worthington, Minn.
·2 min read

Oct. 18—WORTHINGTON — The Buffalo Ridge Leathernecks Marine Corps Detachment will celebrate the 247th anniversary of the formation of the U.S. Marine Corps during a special event Nov. 12, at the Brewster American Legion. The celebration will begin with a 5 p.m. social and 6 p.m. ceremony and meal.

Buffalo Ridge Leathernecks Commandant Gary Stewart said Sgt. Stephen Pederson of Rapid City, South Dakota, will be the guest speaker. Pederson is a Vietnam veteran and will talk about his experience in Vietnam, and what he's done since he left the service.

"He's done a lot of different things for veterans," Stewart shared.

The evening will include a memorial to fallen comrades, recognition of past battles, introduction of members of the local detachment, presentation of the colors by Buffalo Ridge Young Marines, and an awards ceremony to include recognition of the Marine of the Year and commendations to other honorable members.

A birthday cake ceremony is a tradition of the event, with the oldest and youngest Marine present to share in a slice of birthday cake. A birthday message will be given by the Marine Corps Commandant, and the Marine Corps hymn will be sung during the evening.

The dinner will feature a choice of smoked prime rib, smoked pork loin or chicken, and entertainment is by Roger Peterson and Dwight York as the RoJo Comedy Club.

Stewart said raffle tickets will be available for purchase during the event, with 20 one-of-a-kind firearms to be raffled, as well as a hand-forged knife made by Dr. Jerry Johnson of Worthington.

All are welcome to attend the celebration, Stewart said, adding that attendees need not be veterans. Tickets are available for purchase by contacting Stewart at (507) 360-3171, or by stopping at Pawn-It in Worthington and speaking with Vance Johanning.

The Nov. 12 event is made possible thanks to a dozen sponsors, Stewart said.

For those who would like to attend the comedy portion of the evening, Stewart said they will open the doors at 8 p.m. and charge a cover fee for those individuals.