Last Friday I was able to attend Cliff's unit Dining Out. The Marine Corps is full of traditions and protocol, and so is this event. You have your Marine Corps birthday ball every November, and then there's the Mess Night, the Dining In and the Dining Out. There are many similarities to the last 3, but the biggest difference is that the Dining Out includes spouses/significant others.
Cameras are not allowed into the ceremony (Although since I was sans husband, who were they going to fine for such an infraction?) so I only have a few shots from before and after. The fining portion is the most fun...with people throwing around all kinds of accusations (using a strict protocol...sort of like how you have to answer Jeopardy clues in the form of a question) and the President of the Mess doling out fines accordingly. Certain people are exempt, however (the head table, Mr. Vice and spouses/guests...but they can always fine a service member for the infraction of a spouse/guest).
While I was getting ready, it occurred to me that if Cliff was here, I'd have to sit at the stodgy head table with him...but since there was another Chaplain subbing...I got to sit with the other ladies that came stag. We behaved ourselves reasonably well...but had a great time.
The Sgt. Major's wife was gone, too...so he was my date...
well, for the 10 seconds that it took to snap this photo, anyway.
Some more shots of the beautiful people:
One of my partners in crime for the evening.
Can't wait for the ball in November...I've missed the Marine Corps ball as we've been with the Navy the past 3 years. If you are ever invited to one, GO! They are so much fun!
2 comments:
Looks like you guys had a fantastic time! They are soo much fun!
You can be one of my partner's in crime any day!
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