MARION, Ill. (KFVS) - In Williamson County, the Marion VA Health Care System hosted a milestone celebration on Monday in honor of the U.S. Marine Corps’ 250th birthday.

This branch of the U.S. military was established on November 10, 1775, when the Second Continental Congress authorized two battalions of Marines.

The event in Marion, Illinois included guest speakers, a moment of remembrance and of course, birthday cake.

Darrell Tharp retired from the Marines in 1999, but said he will never stop serving.

“We are here to protect your rights to live at home and enjoy every day of life that you live,” Tharp said.

At 9 a.m. on Friday, November 14, the Marion VA will be hosting brunch for all veterans, followed by a Veterans Day ceremony at 11 a.m.

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