BUSAN, Republic of Korea (NNS) -- Sailors stationed throughout Korea gathered in Busan with Navy friends and family from the U.S. and the Republic of Korea to celebrate the 241st birthday of the U.S. Navy.

This year's theme, "America's Sailor: Tough, Bold and Ready," honored the history of Sailors since the birth of the Navy Oct. 13, 1775.

"Tonight, we come together to honor the men and women who have chosen to proudly wear the Navy uniform," said the evening's host, Rear Adm. Brad Cooper, commander of U.S. Naval Forces Korea. "We honor active and Reserve Sailors, as well as those civilians who serve alongside them in times of peace and war, armistice and crisis."

After welcoming the 300 guests to the second Navy Ball in Busan, Cooper introduced the Honorable Mark Lippert, U.S. ambassador to the Republic of Korea and the evening's guest speaker, who began by speaking about the history of the Navy.

"We [the U.S. Navy] have a rich and proud tradition of defending America and protecting American interests on the world's oceans since 1775," said Lippert. "We were ready then, and we are ready now."

Lippert, who also serves as an officer in the Navy Reserve, went on to discuss the importance and public perception of the U.S. and ROK navy partnership.

"Our relationship has matured into a dynamic, strong, and effective partnership that works collaboratively and cooperatively on a range of issues, not just on the Korean Peninsula, but also in the Asia-Pacific region and around the world," said Lippert. "And although we continually do hard things together during this critical period, we have seen the popularity of the U.S.-ROK relationship -- among both Americans and Koreans alike -- reach very high levels."

The ceremony featured music by the ROK navy band, traditional toasts and concluded with the official cake cutting by Lippert, Cooper, ROK navy Vice Adm. Lee, Ki-sik, CNFK Command Master Chief Chris Stone, and the oldest and youngest Sailors in attendance, Capt. Kwan Lee and Petty Officer Second Class Kyle Gambel.

"[The cake-cutting] was a complete surprise," said Gambel, who did not know he was the youngest Sailor. "I had no idea what was going on, but this entire night has been an amazing experience. Celebrating with such a large group of friends, leaders, and dignitaries doesn't happen often, so I am looking forward to next year."

Commander, U.S. Naval Forces, Korea is the regional commander for the U.S. Navy in the Republic of Korea and provides expertise on naval matters to area military commanders, including the commander for the United Nations Command, the Combined Forces Command, and commander, U.S. Forces Korea.