OAKHURST–The United States Marine Corps has a long and storied history, dating back to November 10, 1775. Locally, the Griswold Detachment of the Marine Corps League #1121 holds its annual Marine Corps Ball on the 246th anniversary of its founding, November 10, 2021, at the Hitching Post in Ahwahnee.
Although this is in remembrance of what the Marine Corps has contributed to our nation, it’s not necessary to be a Marine or retired Marine to attend. The ball is open to all, at a cost of $40 per person. That includes a sumptuous menu of prime rib and chicken, salad, soup, bread, iced tea and coffee. A no-host bar will be available.
Dessert is a ceremonial cake, the cutting of which takes place at 5 pm, prior to dinner festivities. Dress is military uniform or semi-formal, with coat and tie for men.
The schedule of activities includes a social hour at 5 pm, ceremonial cake-cutting at 6 pm, followed by dinner.
The MCL Griswold Detachment 1121 is currently composed of 50 members, ranging in age from 35 (Luis Rosas) to 95 (Jerry Bosworth).
Members of the Griswold Mountain Detachment at Patriot Day 2016 (Photo Credit: Virginia Lazar)
The Marine Ball is not the only activity the league engages in throughout the year. According to Mary Ann Enciso, the Griswold Mountain Detachment is heavily involved on the local community with Toys for Toys, scholarships for local high schools, burial details, Military Appreciation Day and Veterans Day. On Memorial day they do the Avenue of the Flags and host memorial services.
Advance paid reservations are required and must be received no later than November 1. Make checks payable to MCL Griswold Detachment 1121 and mail to P O Box 141, Oakhurst, CA 93644. For questions regarding the event, please contact Ann Desmond at 559/863-3518 or email had@netptc.net. Questions can also be addressed to Mary Ann Enciso, Vice Commandant of the Marine Corps League, at 559/676-6848.
Of interest: Marine Corps Ball Etiquette. Photos from Sierra News Online and the Marine Corps League of Oakhurst.
