Happy birthday, Marines

This year the U.S. Marine Corps celebrated its 244th birthday, and a birthday ball was hosted by the Hebert Kennedy Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3979 in Cloquet. Cory Johnson, director of the State Veterans Cemetery in Duluth, was the guest of honor. The oldest marine present was Lance Corporal Ronald Guy Johnson, center, born Jan. 26, 1936, who enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1961. The youngest marine present, who also played "Taps," was Lance Corporal Bryce Moe, left. The oldest and youngest marines took part in the cake ceremony. Contributed photo