Busch Grand National Series

United States Marine Corps to Celebrate 227th Birthday at Phoenix

Mooresville, NC (November 1, 2002) - The United States Marine Corps will celebrate its 227th birthday at Phoenix International Raceway on November 9, 2002. As a tribute to all Marines, past and present, that have made personal sacrifices protecting our country, Team Rensi Motorsports is giving the No. 25 Team Marines Ford Taurus a new look for the Bashas' 200.

Celebrating the birthday of the Marine Corps is a time-honored tradition and one that is never forgotten by a Marine. It was on November 10, 1775 that the Marine Corps was created by a resolution of the Continental Congress, however, formal commemoration of the birthday didn't begin until 1921. Celebrations of the birthday differ among the different posts and stations around the world, but all follow the ceremony prescribed by the Marine Corps Manual.

The "Birthday Ball" is the event that commemorates the birthday. The "Birthday Ball" is a very formal occasion at which every Marine wears their Dress Blues. The music at the ball includes "Semper Fidelis", "Stars and Stripes Forever" and "The Marines Hymn." Ceremonies will include the reading of the Commandant's Birthday message, and the cake cutting. While the origin of the cake cutting ceremony is unknown, traditionally the first piece of the birthday cake is presented to the oldest Marine present and the second piece is presented to the youngest Marine present.

While unable to attend a Birthday Ball, Marines that are in a foxhole, in a jungle or desert, or on board ship in a foreign country preparing for battle will still celebrate the birth of the Corps. Along with the usual daily MRE 's (Meals Ready to Eat) that are delivered to Marines overseas, a small piece of cake is also delivered along with a candle, so that these men may celebrate the special day as well.

Captain Robert Geiger, Marine Corps Recruiting Command, is pleased that Team Rensi Motorsports is joining in the celebration to honor all Marines through the years.

"In every time and place in the world today, Marines are ready to defend the freedom of our country," said Geiger. "Some of these places are muddy fox holes or sand storm deserts. We appreciate Team Rensi Motorsport's acknowledgement of every Marine's sacrifices and the birth of the United States Marine Corps."

Driver of the No. 25 Team Marines Ford, Bobby Hamilton, Jr., is honored to be a part of the tradition.

"It has been an honor to represent the United States Marine Corps this year. As a driver, it gives me such a big feeling of pride to carry the colors of the Marine Corps each week. I would love nothing more than to contribute to this year's birthday celebration with a win at Phoenix in the "Birthday" car. That would be the best birthday gift I could give them."

Sam Rensi, co-owner of Team Rensi Motorsports, couldn't agree more. "We are very honored to be able to take part in celebrating the 227th birthday of the United States Marine Corps. Heroic actions on the battlefield are a hallmark of the U.S. Marine Corps legacy. For 227 years, Marines have exemplified the virtue of placing needs of others above their own for the good of their country. Often on the forefront of the battlefield, these men and women through the generations have dedicated their lives to their country and its people.

As a team, we have a lot of pride in having the opportunity to represent the United States Marine Corps through NASCAR," added Rensi. "Celebrating their 227th birthday is just another way for us to show them that we appreciate their heroism and the sacrifices that they make everyday in an effort to keep this country and its people safe."