United States Marine Corps marks 240 years

TAMPA (FOX 13) - 240 years- That's how long the Marine Corps has fought to keep America safe.

It was on November 10, 1775 that Congress called for two battalions of Marines to defend the country during the American Revolution.

Centuries later, there are more than 200,000 active-duty and reserve Marines organized into three divisions, according to Marines.com.

They live true to their motto, Semper Fidelis, meaning "Always Faithful" in Latin, and on November 10 each year, they mark the occasion with the Marine Corps Ball. Memories are shared, cake is cut and of course, a moment of silence is held for all those who've lost their lives in service to our nation.