PIERRE, S.D.(DRGNews)-The United States Marine Corps turned 250 years old Monday and South Dakota marked the occasion with a ceremony and official cake cutting in Pierre.

Governor Larry Rhoden said 250 is quite a milestone.

Like many families, Rhoden said generations before him served in the military, he served and he knows future generations will need to serve as well.

Dean Kurtz with the South Dakota Marine Corps League said the Corps has established a tradition on Nov. 10 of each year.

Kurtz explained the symbolism of the official cake cutting ceremony.

Gary Wrugler, also with the South Dakota Marine Corps League, shared a message from the Current Marine Corps Commandant. Here’s a short piece of that message.

Done as part of the “50 States – 50 Cakes” 250th Birthday Recognition, the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation and the South Dakota Department of the Marine Corps League hosted the event.