Marines from U.S. Africa Command gathered to celebrate the 239th birthday of the United States Marine Corps on Nov. 17 with a special ceremony that included a videotaped message from the Commandant and a birthday cake. Lt. Gen. Steven A. Hummer, Deputy to the Commander for Military Operations served as they keynote speaker and cut the cake where he served the first pieces to the oldest and youngest Marines in attendance. Hummer spoke on the important role the Marine Corps has played throughout the history of the United States and why today's Marines must remain focused on their training and always ready to be called upon.