VININGS - Fellow Marines gathered at Ray's on the River restaurant Tuesday night to celebrate the anniversary of the military branch's founding and kick off Veterans Day.

West Cobb resident and retired Master Gunnery Sgt. Rich Monica said the Marine Corps' birthday has a special place in his heart.

"The birthday is about the sharing of brotherhood and camaraderie. It's an opportunity for remembrance, reflection and all of the things that are very important," he said. "I have my own birthday, and this is as complimentary of a day to my own birthday."

Monica was a Marine for nearly 29 years, and served in Operation Desert Shield and Desert Storm, the Somalia campaign and Operation Iraqi Freedom. He is the son of former Marine Cpl. Ronald Monica.

On Nov. 10, 1775, Robert Mullan, proprietor of the Tun Tavern in Philadelphia, was commissioned by an act of Congress to raise the first two battalions of Marines under the leadership of Capt. Samuel Nicholas, the first appointed commandant of the Continental Marines. Every year on Nov. 10, Marines worldwide toast the most significant date in the history of the Corps, according to the Tun Tavern's Web site.

Tuesday night wasn't all about the Marines, however.

Powder Springs resident Ruthben Boucaed said today's holiday is a time to reflect on all those who have served the country.

Tommy Lane, of Dallas, said he thinks about his fellow Marines and veterans of the Armed Forces regularly. Lane retired from the Marines in 2000 after 20 years of service.

"It's a big band of brothers. We all poke fun at each other, but we all respect what each other does. It takes all of us to keep this country free. Every time a Marine or any serviceman dies, it feels like I got stabbed," he said. "Civilians don't realize the sacrifices vets make every day, like being separated from their families. Most vets put their unit, their people, before their family."