Do you or a family member serve in the armed forces? If so, then it’s important to know about the key dates throughout the year. This includes the birthday of the US Army. The US Army’s birthday celebrates the birth of the US Army which is now one of the largest the world has ever seen.
When Is The Official Birthday Of The US Army?
The official birthday of the US army is the 14th of June 1775. Every year, celebrations are held during this time. The date marks the day when the US Army was founded and the continental congress authorized the enlistment of expert riflemen who were required to serve the United Colonies for just one year.
History Of The US Army’s Birthday
The Army was formed during America’s Revolutionary War that began on the 19th of April 1775. During this time there were exchanges of musketry between British regulars as well as Massachusetts militiamen at both Lexington and Concord. Soldiers from both Rhode Island and Connecticut joined the fray between the four colonies as well as the British Government. New Englanders known as the Army of Observation required assistance in fighting against British troops. They appealed to delegates of the thirteen colonies in support of American freedom.
While many delegates sought reconciliation, they quickly realized that this was no longer an option and they were in the midst of an all-out war. Congress transformed what started as a local rebellion into a full war for independence once they established the Continental Army. This is the force that we now know as the US Army.
On the 14th of June 1775, soldiers were required to swear an oath to protect America for one year or until they were discharged. On the 15th of June 1775. George Washington was appointed to command all armed forces.
How Is The US Army Birthday Celebrated?
The US Army’s birthday is celebrated each year in a variety of ways across the country. Annually, organizations such as the Association of the United States Army as well as individual US Army MWRs sponsor celebrations on a localized level including:
- Sports events
- Army Balls
- Parties
- Picnics
These are often set up for members of the army and their families to enjoy. It helps bring people together and ensures that members feel more connected.
Traditions Connected With The US Army Birthday
The cake ceremony is one of the longest-standing traditions relevant to the birthday of the US Army. It requires the soldier with the longest time in service to cut the cake with the soldier who has the least amount of time. The cake is cut using the ceremonial military saber.
There is also the Army Birthday Ball. This is not always held on the exact date and day of the birthday. Instead, it will typically take place the weekend before or after. More than 1,600 soldiers attend the US Army birthday ball including the Army’s highest leaders.
We hope this helps you understand why the birthday of the US Army is celebrated each year. It is not just the birthday of the armed forces but the origins of the freedom Americans hold to this day.