National Devil Dog Day is observed on April 27. This unique holiday serves as a dual tribute to the legendary tenacity of the United States Marine Corps and the popular chocolate snack cakes produced by Drake’s. The name originates from World War I, when German soldiers allegedly dubbed the persistent and fierce U.S. Marines “Teufel Hunden,” or “Devil Dogs,” following the Battle of Belleau Wood. While the military connection is a point of pride, the day is equally focused on the iconic cream-filled snack introduced in the 1920s.

History of National Devil Dog Day

The military history behind the “Devil Dog” moniker dates back to 1918. During the intense fighting of the First World War, the U.S. Marine Corps earned a reputation for extreme bravery and refusal to retreat. Although historians have debated the exact linguistic origin of the term “Teufel Hunden,” the nickname was quickly adopted by the American press and used on recruitment posters to symbolize the Corps’ fierce fighting spirit. By 1926, the Drake Baking Company capitalized on this cultural phenomenon by launching the “Devil Dog” snack cake—a cream-filled chocolate treat shaped like a bar.

The official holiday was founded much more recently by Sean Alexander Sobel in 2017. Sobel established the day as a tribute to his grandfather, Howard Leslie Sobel, who had a long-standing family tradition of sharing the snack cakes with his grandchildren. Sean wanted to create a national platform that honored both the rich military history associated with the name and the personal memories created around the kitchen table. The Registrar at National Day Calendar officially proclaimed the day in 2018, ensuring that both the snack and the soldiers are celebrated every April.

Why is National Devil Dog Day important?

This day is important because it bridges the gap between significant military heritage and everyday American culture. By honoring the nickname given to the Marines, the holiday provides an opportunity for the public to reflect on the sacrifices made during World War I and the enduring reputation of the Marine Corps. It keeps the story of the Battle of Belleau Wood alive for younger generations, using a familiar cultural icon to introduce more complex historical themes of service and bravery.

On a community level, the holiday celebrates the power of family traditions and culinary nostalgia. For many, the Devil Dog snack cake represents a childhood connection to parents or grandparents, much like the founder’s own experience. The day also highlights the evolution of the American baking industry and the longevity of brands that have survived economic shifts and ownership changes. It reminds us that even small, simple pleasures like a shared snack can become a vehicle for preserving history and strengthening family bonds.

It honors the legacy and bravery of the United States Marine Corps.
The day commemorates a significant chapter in World War I history.
It celebrates nearly a century of American snack food innovation.
The holiday encourages the preservation of personal family traditions.
It brings awareness to the origins of famous military nicknames.

How to Observe National Devil Dog Day

The most common way to observe this day is to enjoy the namesake treat. Whether purchased from a local grocery store or made from scratch at home, eating a Devil Dog is the central activity of the holiday. Enthusiasts often share photos of their snacks on social media using the official holiday hashtag to connect with other fans and veterans. For those who enjoy baking, the day serves as an inspiration to recreate the classic devil’s food cake and marshmallow crème filling in their own kitchens, experimenting with different sizes or chocolate glazes.

In addition to the culinary celebration, many take time to learn about the “Devil Dogs” of the Marine Corps. This can involve reading historical accounts of the 1918 campaigns in France or visiting military museums. It is also a fitting time to reach out to a Marine in your life to thank them for their service or to donate to organizations that support veterans and their families. Combining a sweet treat with a moment of historical reflection allows participants to observe the day in a way that is both lighthearted and respectful.

Purchase a pack of original Drake’s Devil Dogs to share with friends.
Read a book or watch a documentary about the Battle of Belleau Wood.
Try a recipe to bake a homemade version of the cream-filled cake.
Thank a U.S. Marine for their service and dedication.
Post a photo of your celebration to help spread the word about Marine history.