Guest Author - Sarah Fierro

One night a year, military spouses get to dress up, get their hair done, stay the night at a fancy hotel, and be treated like royalty. This night is better known as the Ball! Whether it is for the Marine Corps, Air Force, Army, or Navy, all balls have rules and regulations that should be followed, as well as involving several traditions to be respected.

The most exciting part of the ball is finding out where it will be held. This depends on the unit's decision and how much money was fundraised the previous year. The ball is the only annual major event for most branches, so a lot of time and effort is put into planning it. Most units choose hotels or large restaurants to host the event. Some creative units may choose cruise ships, historic rented homes, or nearby amusements parks. The location of the ball will determine the pricing, whether an overnight stay is involved, and the dress code, so it is important to find out where it will be held ahead of time!

Ball tickets are usually sold a month before the event. For the Marine Corps, it is referred to as the Birthday Ball and the tickets are sold during October. The Birthday Ball is then held during November, as close to the Marine Corps birthday as possible. Some units will require their members to attend the ball, so saving ahead of time is a necessity! The tickets can often be pricey, and will cost more for a more creative and exciting location.

The dress code for any ball is formal, but the details can change depending on where it takes place. All branches of service have a dress uniform for their members, but spouses and family members who wish to attend have the option of wearing formal suits or dresses. Suit jackets should accompany a tailored suit. Dresses are normally required to be worn at ankle length. Short dresses are seen at some balls, but check your invitation or call and ask before you purchase one! It is appropriate to bring along purses, but there are normally so many people in one unfamiliar place, it is just another item to keep track of. Some locations that are used to hosting these events will have a check-in stand, where you can drop off your purse or jacket any time during the night. You should plan on wearing comfortable shoes as well. There is always a band or hired DJ and dancing!

While children are welcome at most balls, some locations may be inappropriate for the entire family. It is also common for service members to invite their parents or other special guests to the ball. Special ticket prices are set for guests, and they must follow the same rules and dress codes as the rest of the attendees.

During the ball, special attention is paid to the order of events and the ceremonies involved. The Chaplain will say a prayer, the head of the unit will make a speech, and a guest speaker is usually invited to share their own story about the unit or branch. A short skit is often performed by volunteer service members. These skits show the history of the branch or unit, or sometimes exemplify a special recognition the unit received. During the ceremonies, it is inappropriate to get up or leave the room for any reason, so most attendees plan to be comfortably in their seats by the beginning! Dinner is served in a preset manner, which is also explained on your invitation.

The military ball is a great night for a service member and their spouse to have fun and spend time together, while recognizing the job they do on a daily basis. If plans are made ahead of time, such as outfits, room reservations, and transportation, it is an annual date you will both enjoy!