What is Armed Forces Day?
Posted by Philip Kauppinen on 14th May 2024
Armed Forces Day is a holiday honoring members of the U.S. Military who serve in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Space Force and Coast Guard. Armed Forces Day serves as an opportunity for American citizens to recognize the dedication and sacrifices of active duty military personnel in defending our country.
Throughout the country, Armed Forces day is celebrated with events such as parades, military demonstrations, air shows, and community programs. Along with the United States, Armed Forces Day is celebrated in many other countries to honor their military forces.
When is Armed Forces Day?
In the United States, Armed Forces Day is celebrated on the 3rd Saturday of May. Armed Forces Day falls on the end of Armed Forces Week, which begins celebration on the 2nd Saturday of May.
Armed Forces Day is celebrated in May as it was designated Military Appreciation Month by Congress in 1999. Other events during Military Appreciation Month include Memorial Day and Military Spouse Appreciation Day.
When was Armed Forces Day Started?
Armed Forces Day was created on August 31, 1949 by Secretary of Defense Louis Johnson. Johnson created Armed Forces Day to replace separate celebrations for the Army, Navy and Air Force. The idea for Armed Forces Day stemmed from the different branches being unified under the Department of Defense.
The first Armed Forces Day was celebrated on May 20, 1950 under President Harry Truman. President Truman stated “Armed Forces Day, Saturday, May 20, 1950, marks the first combined demonstration by America's defense team of its progress, under the National Security Act, towards the goal of readiness for any eventuality. It is the first parade of preparedness by the unified forces of our land, sea, and air defense".
Memorial Day vs. Veterans Day vs. Armed Forces Day
Memorial Day, Veterans Day, and Armed Forces Day are all important in the United States to honor and recognize the military and its members, but they each have distinct purposes and significance.
Memorial Day
Memorial Day is observed annually on the last Monday of May. The purpose of Memorial Day is to honor and pay tribute to the Americans who have died while serving the United States Armed Forces. Memorial Day activities include ceremonies, visits to cemeteries and memorials to honor those who have fallen.
Veterans Day
Veterans Day is observed on November 11th of every year. Veterans Day honors all of the military veterans who served in the United States Armed Forces and recognizes their sacrifices for our freedom. Veterans Day celebrations often include parades, ceremonies and events thanking veterans for their service.
Armed Forces Day
Armed Forces Day is observed annually on the 3rd Saturday of May. Armed Forces Day recognizes active-duty members of the United States Armed Forces and provides an opportunity for citizens to pay respect for their sacrifices. Armed Forces Day observances include military displays, parades, and open houses at military installments.
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