Commanding General of Camp Pendleton underscores importance of honoring Marines & Sailors that have come before - U.S Marine Brig. Gen. Dan Conley, the commanding general of Marine Corps Installations West, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, speaks during the 244th Marine Corps Birthday Cake Cutting Ceremony at the Camp Pendleton Base Theater and Training Center on Camp Pendleton, California, Nov. 5, 2019. The cake cutting ceremony is held each year to celebrate the Marine Corps birthday. The first piece is given to the guest of honor, the second to the oldest Marine present. As part of the ceremony, the oldest and youngest Marines present share a piece of cake, signifying the passing of experience and knowledge from the old to the young of the Marine Corps. (U.S Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Drake Nickels)