Marine Corps Base Quantico -- Naval Health Clinic Quantico celebrated the 103rd birthday of the U.S. Navy Dental Corps with a traditional cake cutting ceremony Aug. 21.
The Navy Dental Corps was established in 1912, with 30 dental surgeons who were given the mission to maintain the dental health of Sailors and Marines in combat and garrison world wide.
“Since World War I, the Dental Corps has been a part of every wartime effort. Its addition to Naval Medicine allowed the military to recruit Sailors and Marines during that wartime,” said Cmdr. Karen Stokes, Naval Health Clinic Quantico, senior dental executive, during the ceremony.
To the more than 1,300 active duty and reserve members of the Navy Dental Corps, I commend you for 103 years of world-class dental care, said Stokes to the department of civilians and Corpsmen.
During the ceremony, NHCQ commanding officer Cmdr. Gordon R. Smith was honored with the first slice of cake. The next slice of cake was given to the oldest dental officer present, born in 1964 and then youngest Sailor present, born in 1989. This tradition signifies the passing of experience and knowledge through the ranks.
“The Dental Corps plays an integral part in the military’s mission readiness, without them many Marines wouldn’t go forward.” to fight our nation’s battles," said Smith.
—iirby@quanticosentryonline.com