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The Lt. Alexander Bonnyman Detachment 924 celebrated the Marine Corps 248th Birthday with a ball and service awards at Rothchild's Conference Center on 10 November 2023. Master of Ceremonies Sam Ruble kept the event moving forward. East Tennessee Veterans Honor Guard posted the colors to begin the celebration. After singing the National Anthem, the traditional birthday cake was cut and served to oldest Marine, Robert Adams and youngest Marine, Travis Bryan.   Guest Speaker Blount County Mayor Ed Mitchell was also served.  Commandant Susie Schmidt read General Lejeune’s traditional birthday message. Afterwards, Commandant Schmidt introduced Mayor Ed Mitchell who lavished praise on Marines. His address to us was outstanding!   Mayor Mitchell was presented with a plaque expressing our appreciation by Commandant Susie Schmidt. Chaplain Ron Naugle led us in benediction before we sat down to an excellent dinner served by the staff of Rothchild’s.

After dinner, Detachment Awards were presented for 2023 by Jeff Tegzes. Marine of the Year was awarded to Keith Kregel. A new award recently established by the Marine Corps League, Detachment Associate of the Year was awarded to Doug Freeman. The awardee of the Semper Fi Award was Carlos Reyes who was not present to receive it.

 

Marine Corps League Auxiliary Awards were presented by MCLA Bonnyman Detachment President, Connie Sexton. The Distinguished Service Award was given to Joann Bryan. Trudy Freetage was recognized with a Certificate of Appreciation. A Certificate of Appreciation was also awarded to Susan Dennis who was not present to receive it.

 

Traditional toasts followed the awards ceremony. Robert Ballesteros conducted a silent auction that was quite entertaining. The evening was rounded out by dancing to the music of the Vocal Point duet +1.

Happy Birthday, Marines!

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