Breaking News

More () »

Military News

Happy birthday, U.S. Army! Military branch celebrates 249 years of service

On June 14, 1775, the Continental Congress authorized the enlistment of expert riflemen to serve the United Colonies for one year, creating the Continental Army.

More Videos

Next up in 5

Example video title will go here for this video

Next up in 5

Example video title will go here for this video

NEWPORT NEWS, Va. — For 249 years, the United States Army has been committed to its country and its people.

On June 14, 1775, the Continental Congress authorized the enlistment of expert riflemen to serve the United Colonies for one year, thus creating the Continental Army, the forerunner of today's U.S. Army. The following day, Congress appointed George Washington "to command all the Continental forces" and began laying the foundation for "the American army."

RELATED: U.S. Navy celebrates 248th birthday

The military branch celebrates its birthday every June 14.

Also on that same day in 1777, our country adopted the flag of the United States, now commemorated as Flag Day.

RELATED: Is Flag Day a federal holiday? Here's everything to know about the obscure holiday

Joint Base Langley-Eustis posted this video on social media celebrating the Army's 249th birthday:

Defending the Nation for 249 Years
Honoring the past and defending the future since June 14, 1775! Team JBLE wishes the U.S. Army a happy 249th birthday!!! 🎥: by Senior Airman Olivia Bithell #ArmyBday #armystrong U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command | U.S. Army Center for Initial Military Training
Posted by Joint Base Langley-Eustis on Friday, June 14, 2024