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On the third Saturday of May, Americans across the country come together to celebrate Armed Forces Day, a national observance honoring the men and women who serve in the United States military across all six branches: the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, Coast Guard, and Space Force¹.

Armed Forces Day is a day to reflect on the sacrifices made by these brave individuals and to show appreciation for their unwavering commitment to protecting our freedoms and way of life. From parades to public events, communities across the country come together on this day to show their support for those who have answered the call to serve.

Armed Forces Day was established in 1949, two years after the signing of the National Security Act by President Harry S. Truman². Defense Secretary Louis Johnson announced Armed Forces Day on Aug. 31, 1949³. The act unified the four branches of the military under a single executive authority, the Secretary of Defense, leading to the creation of the National Military Establishment⁴. The establishment of Armed Forces Day followed the unification of the forces under the National Security Act.

The first Armed Forces Day was observed on May 20, 1950, after President Truman issued Presidential Proclamation 2873⁵. President Truman called it the “first formal procession of preparedness by the unified forces of our land, sea, and air defense.”

In 1961, President John F. Kennedy signed Presidential Proclamation 3399, officially declaring Armed Forces Day a national holiday on every third Saturday in May⁶. Since then, the day has been celebrated annually, providing an opportunity for the nation to show its appreciation for the military’s service to the country.

Armed Forces Day is an essential day of national observance that acknowledges the contributions and sacrifices made by the members of the armed forces. The day provides an opportunity for Americans to express their gratitude for the service of the men and women in uniform who have dedicated themselves to protecting the country’s freedom and security.

This day is also a reminder of the challenges faced by the military and their families, from the risks and dangers of combat to the difficulties of being away from loved ones for extended periods. Service members often bear the burden of long deployments, frequent relocations, and the emotional toll of separation.

Armed Forces Day is a time for individuals and communities to reach out to service members, veterans, and their families and express their gratitude for their service and sacrifice. Many businesses and organizations offer discounts and special promotions to military members and their families on Armed Forces Day.

But there is more that we can do to honor and support those who serve. We can pledge to take action to honor veterans and service members not just on Armed Forces Day, but every day.

Take the Armed Forces Day Pledge and show your support!