Friday night I attended the U.S. Army Birthday Ball in celebration of the Army’s founding 234 years ago today.  You can read all about that glorious history here.

This was my first time attending an event of this nature, and it was pretty cool.  All the military folks dressed out in their formal uniforms and the civilian contingent in our tuxedos.  I had my tux tailor made three years ago for my last formal event, the Commader’s Mess.  I didn’t need a scale to tell me I’ve gained a few pounds since then.  So, it will be back to the tailor for some alterations before my next ball!

Anyway, the event was held at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in Seoul.  A great venue and convienent as well.  We started with a cocktail hour where I mingled with the brass, which was my real motivation for attending.  You know, showing “the flag” and demonstrating that our civilian workforce is part of the formation and supportive of our brothers and sisters in arms and all that. 

Then the signal was given to enter the dining hall and we all took our assigned seats.  Now, if I had known better I would have arranged to get assigned to sit with some folks I actually know.  Instead I was seated with some Korean civilians there to show support.  Which is all good, but we didn’t have much dinner conversation if you know what I mean.

I never had the privalage to serve in the military, but I never fail to be impressed with the traditions and pomp and circumstance.  We began with the presentation of colors, singing of the ROK and USA national anthems, and assorted toasts.  Then something I had never seen but found fascinating to witness was the placement of campaign streamers on the Army flag.  Army streamers ave been awarded for participation in the various wars and military engagements throughout the Army’s history.  The had soldiers dressed in period uniforms solemnly presenting each streamer from that era to be attached to the Army flag.  Good stuff, and a reminder of the debt we owe those who have served honorably in defense of our nation.  Here’s what the flag looks like with streamers:

We then sang the Army song, which I always enjoy:

First to fight for the right,

And to build the Nation’s might,

And The Army Goes Rolling Along

Proud of all we have done,

Fighting till the battle’s won,

And the Army Goes Rolling Along.

Then it’s Hi! Hi! Hey!

The Army’s on its way.

Count off the cadence loud and strong

For where e’er we go,

You will always know

That The Army Goes Rolling Along.

Then we had a speech by the 8th Army commanding general, Joseph F. Fil.  Dinner was served and I departed shortly afterwards, avoiding the dancing but having fulfilled my mission for the evening.

Oh, I met a traditional Korean woman at the event and she even consented to have her photo taken with me.  She didn’t have much to say however.

I guess you could call that a good night.  Happy Birthday to the U.S. Army!