Armed Forces Day: Throughout History and Modern Traditions

Each year, Americans come together to recognize the dedication, service, and sacrifices of those who serve in the United States Armed Forces. Armed Forces Day is a special occasion that honors the US military, offering the nation a chance to show appreciation for the service members who protect our freedoms.

What is Armed Forces Day?

Armed Forces Day is an annual holiday in the United States that celebrates all US military branches. It’s intended to be a day on which American citizens come together to thank those serving in the Armed Forces for their work and sacrifices. 

President Harry Truman and Secretary of Defense Louis Johnson established the holiday on August 31, 1949, and it was observed for the first time on May 20, 1950. The holiday also represented the consolidation of the separate military branches—the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, and Coast Guard—under the Department of Defense. Originally, Armed Forces Day was meant to replace the individual holidays of each branch; however, most service members and military installations celebrate their holidays to this day.

Armed Forces Day was codified as a national holiday by President John F. Kennedy in 1961. On May 15, 2020, the newly created Space Force was formally honored as part of the Armed Forces. 

When is Armed Forces Day?

National Armed Forces Day occurs each year on the third Saturday of May. It’s one of the closing holidays for Armed Forces Week, which starts on the second Saturday and ends on the third Sunday. 

How is Armed Forces Day Celebrated?

Armed Forces Day is commonly celebrated at military bases and academies, including private ceremonies and open houses for the public. Some divisions also host air shows, displays, receptions, and parades. 

The longest-running Armed Forces Day parade was founded on May 15, 1948, two years before the holiday itself. The parade takes place each year in Bremerton, Washington, the location of Naval Base Kitsap. 

One purpose of Armed Forces Day is to inform the American public about how the branches have progressed and what they are doing to protect the US. A common practice is for bases to host displays exhibiting innovative breakthroughs produced by the military and cutting-edge technology under development.

To show your support for the US Armed Forces at home, consider reaching out to service members and veterans in your community to thank them for their service. You can also express your patriotism and pride in America’s military by joining the long-running tradition of flying the American flag on this holiday.

Armed Forces Day is a meaningful reminder of the dedication and bravery of those who serve in the United States military. Whether through participating in events, ceremonies, or simply by flying the American flag, this holiday gives every citizen a chance to express gratitude and respect for the service members who protect our country.