June 14 marks the 244th anniversary of the creation of America’s Army. Lawmakers, government officials, and Army soldiers around the world celebrate the branch’s birthday with ceremony, reflection, and, of course, cake.
Since it’s beginnings in 1775 under then-General George Washington, the Continental Army (later renamed the U.S. Army) has always been a force to be reckoned with.
The last 244 years have seen hard work, sacrifice, and great change to America’s oldest military branch.
At a recent ceremony honoring the 75th anniversary of D-Day, the Allied forces invasion of the Normandy coast in 1944 during World War II, Army Chief of Staff Gen. Mark Milley spoke to veterans who were on the beach that day about the perspective they gained.
At a later cake-cutting ceremony to celebrate the Army’s birthday, Gen. Milley shared what he learned from “The Greatest Generation.”
“Let us never forget that 75 years ago the world was amass in violence,” he said. “And the way to keep that peace is to maintain an incredibly strong military for the United States.”
Birthday celebrations reported by the Army include a cake-cutting by Pentagon leaders, a run through Arlington National Cemetery led by Secretary of the Army Mark Esper and Sergeant Major of the Army Daniel Dailey, laying a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknowns, and the Army Birthday Ball. Individual units are also celebrating with events like cake-cuttings, fun runs, and other ways to mark the day.
Happy birthday to all the soldiers who have served or are currently serving in the United States Army.
