Released by the Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division China Lake Public Affairs Office--

Wednesday, Nov. 9, members of the Marine Aviation Detachment (MAD) China Lake were joined by Navy, civilian, and contractor co-workers in celebration of the Marine Corps’ 230 years celebration of defending the U.S. with distinction and honor. Tonight, Nov. 10, the formal Marine Corps Ball is planned to highlight the activities.

“That rich legacy continues today,” said General Peter Pace, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) and the first Marine JCS Chairman. “Americans everywhere take comfort in the knowledge that their Marine Corps remains always faithful in the defense of our way of life,” he added in a released statement.

Colonel Mark Bamberger, MAD commanding officer at China Lake, gave a summary…” We are honored to be here today to recognize the service and sacrifice of those who have gone before us and have enabled us to live in a country where freedom and opportunity are available for all Americans. We are especially grateful for those who are currently in harms way throughout the globe who are not only defending our national interests, but who are also working diligently to make this a better world and to ensure future generations are afforded the opportunity for freedom, peace and prosperity.”

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Photo cutline: (left to right) Marine Aviation Detachment Commanding Officer Colonel Mark Bamberger cuts the 230th celebration cake in honor of the 2005 Marine Corps birthday with Major Eric Rine, executive officer, Corporal Ricald and Lance Corporal Stewart.