Rockland Veterans Celebrate 236th Birthday of Marine Corps (VIDEO)

Every birthday party needs cake. For the 236th birthday of the Marine Corps, it was no different.

"On Nov. 10 1775 a corps of marines was created by a resolution by the Continental Congress," said Chief of Staff George Rath of the Rockland County Marine Corps League.

The league held their annual celebrations on Thursday starting with a at the Rockland County’s Veterans Memorial Cemetery in New Hempstead followed by a luncheon at the Platzl Brauhaus in Pomona.

The luncheon included an award honoree, the cutting and passing of the cake. This luncheon has been running for about 20 years.

“On the birthday of the Marine Corps, we reflect on our past victories and marines who gave the ultimate sacrifice,” said Lt. Col. Peter Myer. “But we also think about today’s Marines and their place in history.”

“We fight for one thing, that’s the freedom of our people and the freedom of people everywhere,” said Rath. ”The Marine Corps holds a special place in the hearts of Americans. We are the smallest of the four services, but we hold ourselves to the highest of standards. Today we’re thankful for all Marines … thankful for our families who endure many difficulties that come with being part of the Marine Corps. We could not do what we do without our loved ones.”

Honoree Dale Robinson was the recipient of the ‘Col. Robert Stolarik’ Community Service Award.

“It was amazing. I didn’t expect it at all,” said Robinson, who was there with his son Sean. “Part of it was team effort here so a lot of guys worked with me on it and I really appreciate that Dale Robinson was born in Nyack Hospital, but raised in West Nyack.  After graduating from Clarkstown North High School in 1957, he joined the Marines just one year later.

Col. David Cahn cut the cake and the oldest Marine gave a slice of cake to the youngest Marine to symbolize the passing of knowledge. Frank Bruno, 95, of the 4th Marine Division who fought in Iwo Jima, passed a cake slice to Esteban Villaneva, who turned 21 just this past Wednesday.

Watch the video for more from the luncheon ceremonies and more on Dale Robinson.