Armed Forces Day, falling tomorrow (May 17), will see celebrations of all six branches of the U.S. Military: Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marine Corps, Navy, and Space Force. The day is now always recognized as the third Saturday in May and honors all currently serving or who have served in the Armed Forces, including the National Guard and Reserve components.

Originally, there were single day celebrations for the Army, Navy and Air Force. This format changed on Aug. 21, 1949, when Secretary of Defense Louis Johnson announced the creation of Armed Forces Day. Stemming from the unification of the Armed Forces under the Department of Defense, the annual celebration now commemorates all branches of the military during a single day.

The first official Armed Forces Day took place on May 20, 1950, and was themed “Teamed for Defense.” In honor of the special day, B-36 Bombers flew over state capitals, a march was led by more than 10,000 veterans and troops in Washington, D.C., and more than 33,000 people participated in a New York City parade.

In addition, the first Armed Forces Day also played an essential part in educating society and expanding public knowledge of the military and the role it plays in the community. The holiday was not only a means to honor those who serve or who have served, but also a way to showcase its top of the line equipment and abilities used to protect the American people.

Look for discounts, most of them provided tomorrow, for active-duty troops and veterans at local restaurants and retail establishments. Mission BBQ locations throughout the country, for example, offer a free sandwich from 11:00am-2:00pm local time with a National Anthem presentation planned for high noon.

Appy Pie Design, a popular website seeking to offer advice to make technology accessible and affordable, offers eight suggestions on its blog on how to celebrate Armed Forces Day. They are:

• Volunteer in support of military communities.
• Help with veterans’ services.
• Visit a military base or museum.
• Fly the American Flag respectfully.
• Support a military spouse.
• Show appreciation to Armed Forces personnel or thank a veteran.
• Teach children about the Armed Forces.
• Organize or join a community recognition Event.