A Fremont tradition builds community and camaraderie for veterans across the region
On the eve of Veterans Day on Nov. 10, the George & Dragon Pub became a gathering place for Marines from across the Puget Sound, celebrating the 250th birthday of the United States Marine Corps with the traditions and brotherhood that define the service.
Marines traveled from Arlington to Graham to Fremont, drawn by word of mouth, past experiences, and friends of friends who knew this annual celebration at the neighborhood pub was something special. One family from Graham exemplified the Marine Corps legacy – a retired Marine father attended alongside his daughter and son-in-law, both former Marines themselves.
The evening featured all the hallmarks of a proper Marine Corps birthday celebration. Multiple renditions of the Marine Hymn filled the pub in unison. The traditional cake-cutting ceremony took place with a saber, performed by the youngest and oldest Marines in attendance. It’s a ritual that symbolizes the passing of tradition from one generation to the next. The Commandant’s message was read, shots were raised, cake was shared, and “Oorahs” echoed throughout the night.
Adding to the festivities, one attendee brought a couple of bulldogs – the iconic Marine Corps mascot – surprising the crowd and providing memorable photo opportunities.
Behind this celebration is pub owner Daniel Pagard, himself a Marine Corps veteran, who understands a challenge many veterans face: finding places to connect with fellow service members in civilian life. For Pagard, this annual Marine Corps birthday celebration has become a tradition he’s committed to growing in the years ahead.
“It’s hard to find ways to bring veterans together,” Pagard said, and he’s working to make his pub that gathering place…not just for veterans, but for football (aka soccer) fans, neighbors, and anyone looking for a cozy community spot in Fremont.
In a world where military traditions can easily fade into the background of daily life, Pagard’s dedication to creating space for veterans to gather, celebrate, and reconnect stands out. The George & Dragon Pub isn’t just serving food and drinks; it’s serving something harder to find: genuine community and camaraderie.
Today, on Veterans Day, take a moment to thank a veteran in your life. And if you’re a Marine or know one, keep the George & Dragon Pub in mind for next year’s 251st birthday celebration.
Semper Fi.
