On what date was the U.S. Marine Corps founded, reaching its 250th anniversary before America250?

The U.S. Marine Corps was founded on November 10, 1775.

The Second Continental Congress authorized two battalions of Continental Marines during the Revolutionary War. The founding resolution was adopted at Tun Tavern in Philadelphia, a traditional location associated with the Corps’ early recruiting and organization.

The Marine Corps celebrates November 10 as its birthday every year. Its 250th anniversary occurred in 2025, making it one of the major Revolutionary-era military anniversaries immediately preceding America250 in 2026.

The Marine Corps anniversary should not be confused with the Army’s birthday on June 14, 1775. Both services originated under the Continental Congress, but they were established on different dates and served different roles. Marines were organized for shipboard and amphibious operations, while the Continental Army was the main land force.