Every third Saturday in May, America comes together to celebrate Armed Forces Day in honor of the brave men and women who serve in the U.S. military.
May 15, 2021 is the 71st anniversary of the establishment of Armed Forces Day. This commemorative holiday was established by President Harry Truman in 1950 following the passage of the National Security Act in 1947.
To recognize the unification of America’s forces under the National Security Act, the establishment of the joint Armed Forces Day was announced by Secretary of Defense Louis Johnson on Aug. 31, 1949. President Truman issued a Presidential Proclamation on Feb. 27, 1950 that created the first Armed Forces Day.
The establishment of Armed Forces Day marks the modernization of the command of the U.S. military—the greatest military force in the world. Since the Continental Army was formed in 1775, the U.S. military has significantly grown and evolved to meet modern challenges. Over the past 246 years, the valiant men and women of the U.S. military have confronted the most dangerous threats to America, our freedoms, and our values. Our military men and women at home and abroad today carry on the legacy of the American heroes who won our independence from the British, defeated fascism in Europe, defied the expansion of communism, and confronted radical terrorism in the Middle East.
It is because of the dedication, hard work, and commitment of the U.S. military that America stands ready to meet any challenge. With the establishment of the Space Force as the 7th military branch in 2019, the U.S. military is equipped to continue to defend against threats to the United States that may emerge in the 21st century and beyond.
The security of our freedom, democracy, and homeland are made possible through the selfless courage, patriotism, and sacrifice of the American heroes in the U.S. armed forces. We invite you to join us in thanking the members of our U.S. military on this Armed Forces Day. May God continue to bless our American military heroes and their families.