Awakenings: #celebrate Armed Forces Day

On August 31, 1949, Secretary of Defense Louis Johnson announced the creation of an Armed Forces Day to replace separate Army, Navy, Marine Corps and Air Force Days. The single day celebration stemmed from the unification of the Armed Forces under the Department of Defense. Armed Forces Day is celebrated annually on the third Saturday of May.

May 21, 2016 is...

Not only on this day of celebration but any day, salute sharply to all of the men and women in all branches of the service who protect our country and each of us as individuals. They can be called upon at a moment's notice to perform a risky and perilous mission for the freedoms America offers on a continuous daily basis. They train diligently both physically and mentally so they will be prepared to prevail in any mission they face.

Just how did it all begin?

Each branch of the military has had their own day of celebration designated at some point in time. President Harry Truman led the effort to establish a single holiday for citizens to come together and thank our military members for their patriotic service in support of our country. After Secretary of Defense Louis Johnson made his announcement, President Truman also announced the holiday in a presidential proclamation on February 20, 1950. All branches of the military were asked to celebrate on this day and they complied on the first Armed Forces Day which was held the following year on May 20, 1950.