This year, we had the privilege of attending the 250th Marine Corps Birthday Ball in Rome, Italy, hosted at the breathtaking Villa Milani. Standing beneath glittering chandeliers and surrounded by ornate artwork, the evening felt both elegant and deeply meaningful—a perfect place to celebrate such a historic milestone.

For us, the Marine Corps Ball is more than a formal event. It’s a tradition rooted in my husband’s own journey. He served in the United States Marine Corps from 1994 until he separated in 2006, and he carries fond memories of his time in the Corps. Every year, no matter where we are in the world, we make it a point to attend a Marine Corps Ball. It’s our way of staying connected to the legacy, the camaraderie, and the pride that shaped so much of his life.

Our travels have taken us to Balls in Estonia, Canada, California, Japan, Tunisia, Finland, and now—Italy. Each celebration has its own character, but the sense of honor and tradition is always the same.

The Beauty of Villa Milani

Villa Milani provided a stunning backdrop for the 250th anniversary celebration. The warm lighting, classic decor, and grand setting made the night feel like something out of a painting—timeless, elegant, and unforgettable.

We posed for photos in front of the American and Marine Corps flags, the perfect reminder of the enduring spirit of the Corps even as we celebrated halfway across the world.

The program began with moving speeches that paid tribute to 250 years of service and sacrifice. Each speaker brought their own stories, reminding us why this celebration continues to mean so much to Marines and their families.

The cake-cutting ceremony—a tradition symbolizing the passing of knowledge from one generation of Marines to the next—was especially poignant this year. Watching the oldest Marine present pass cake to the youngest always brings a moment of reflection and gratitude.

Dinner, Dancing, and Celebration

After the ceremony, we enjoyed a delicious dinner featuring local Italian flavors, followed by a night of dancing. The music, laughter, and joy filled the room, creating an atmosphere that blended formal tradition with genuine celebration.

As we left Villa Milani that night, we were reminded once again why the Marine Corps Ball means so much to us. Whether we’re in a bustling city or a remote corner of the globe, this tradition is something we will always honor together.

From Estonia to Japan, from Canada to Tunisia, and now in Italy, we continue to celebrate the legacy of the Marine Corps with pride. And no matter where life takes us next, we know one thing for certain:

If there’s a Marine Corps Ball, we’ll be there. 

Thank you for all the woman and men who have served and continue to serve our country!

Semper Fidelis 🥂🇺🇸