Marine Corps League Speedy Wilson 1141
511 Violet Street West Columbia, South Carolina 29169
(803) 892-3068















The 249th Birthday Celebration 
 

 Click here for more info »









'Twas all begun in a Tavern called Tun  


 In November 1775 men were responding to a call to arms following the authorization by the Second Continental Congress for the raising of two battalions of Marines which would augment our naval forces in the Revolutionary War..

The location was a tavern on Water Street in Philadelphia, Tun Tavern, a recruiting station chosen by 31-year-old Captain Samuel Nichols. His success in raising the two battalions of Continental Marines on November 10,1775 marked the birthplace and birthday of the United States Marine Corps.

We will commemorate the 249th birthday of the corps this year with celebrations by Marines old and young, in private homes, Embassies, Marine Barracks, "in every clime and place," where Marines may gather. The tradition continues, The tradition of service to God, country, Corps.

 The celebration in Columbia will be held this year at the NCO Club at Fort Jackson.

 As with all structured birthday celebrations, it will begin with an official ceremonial program steeped in the honored traditions honed over the years. A social event with dinner, refreshments, music, dancing, and an auction to follow.

 In adhering to our tradition of service to our Country the Blue Stare Mothers of America have been invited to hold their annual silent auction that night. All proceeds from that auction will benefit the Blue Star Mothers of America and their program in support of the needs of their children, on active duty or otherwise.

 We will also have donation boxes available to support the Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots program and encourage all attendees to bring a new, unwrapped toy or book to share with those less fortunate children in our communities.

 Please join us on Saturday evening, November 2nd, 2024, beginning at 5 pm (1700), at the NCO Club, Fort Jackson, 5700 Lee Road, Columbia, SC 29207. 

Tickets are $75.00 each. 

For more information, please contact: CWO 5 Chuck Paxton, at 803-422-3025, or chuckpaxton7@gmail.com 



  • Social hour, cash bar and canapes
  • Traditional Birthday Ceremony Cake Cutting
  • Dynamic Guest Speaker
  • Fantastic Buffet Dinner with a variety of proteins, side dishes, and a magnificent prime Rib Carving Station and dessert 
  • Silent auctions and raffles sponsored by and benefitting the Midland Chapter Blue Star Moms in support of deployed military and their families
  • Dancing to great music of DJ Garrett    



--



Founded By Marines FOR Marines


Marine Corps League Speedy Wilson 1141 is an organization founded by marines for marines. Our mission started as a means to honor and memorialize one of our very own Marines, H.E. “Speedy” Wilson. His heroism and outstanding service still inspire us today and embrace the core values of what it means to be a marine. Through the years, we’ve expanded our reach, recruiting veterans and active marines to join. Membership in the League is open to all Marines who proudly wear or who have worn the eagle, globe, and anchor of the Corps and to our "Devil Docs" (United States Navy Corpsmen).

We are a social and active group that fosters the same esprit de corps that we all remember from our time in uniform. Toys for Tots is a big deal for us each Christmas, but we are active in our community throughout the year with other civic projects.

Potential new members are always welcome at our monthly meetings, which are held the second Thursday of each month. Please contact us at (803) 892-3068 for more information. Semper Fidelis!




What we're about

See how we honor Marine Veteran, Speedy Wilson

Speedy Wilson

Harold "Speedy" Wilson is a hero and fellow Marine we strive to honor each year. As a Medal of Honor recipient, Speedy embodies the heart and soul of the Marine Corp values. Each year, we celebrate his memory by visiting his gravesite and sharing a cold one.

see community programs we're involved in

Our programs

We do our part to honor our country and fellow citizens through good works. Some of the programs we’re involved in include Toys for Tots, Boy Scouts, local food banks, clothing drives, and programs centered around helping active and retired Marines.

learn more about us

About Us

Marine Corps League Speedy Wilson 1141 is an organization founded by local veterans. For years, we’ve been dedicated to servicing our nation in more ways than one. We consider our organization the home for Marines to commemorate their service and sacrifice.

learn how you can get involved with our organization

Get Involved

The Marine Corps League Speedy Wilson 1141 welcomes all marines to become a member of our organization. There are many ways you can get involved and contribute to our causes through volunteer work and celebrating fellow men and women of service.
  • Marines honoring the gravesite for Speedy Wilson
  • New members joining Marine Corps League Speedy Wilson 1141
  • Members of Marine Corps League Speedy Wilson 1141
  • Marine Corps Speedy Wilson cake on the left, with 2 men joining organization on the right
  • 2 men at Speedy Wilson celebration (left). Man and woman at Speedy Wilson event (right).
  • More photos from a Marine Corps Speedy Wilson meeting



Banding Together


Just as we did in the line of duty, we continue to band together for our community. The Marine Corps League Speedy Wilson 1141 invites you to join our cause in volunteer work and commemorating the immense sacrifice of those who served and continue to serve our county.



Department of South Carolina Marine Corps


Show Your Support

Join Us »