The U.S. Navy turns 250 years old this Monday! Looking back to the birth of this branch of the Armed Forces, the Continental Congress established the Continental Navy which later, on October 13, 1775, became the United States Navy. Its principal purpose with just two armed vessels was to disrupt munition ships supplying the British Army in America. From there, and during two and one-half centuries, the Navy has grown to become the largest, most advanced, and most lethal fighting force the world has ever known.

In 1972, Chief of Naval Operations Admiral Elmo Zumwalt designated October 13 as the Navy’s official birthday and directed that it be commemorated “so as to enhance [the] appreciation of our Navy heritage” and “reinforce pride and professionalism in the Naval Service.”

Homecoming 250’s Navy 250 Gala (Saturday, October 11) will celebrate the Navy’s 250th anniversary. The black-tie/mess-dress Gala will be held in the Great Hall and Overlook of the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia, looking out at Independence Hall where the Navy and Marine Corps were both created 250 years ago. The reception will begin at 6:00pm, followed by dinner and dancing until 11:30pm. It will be hosted by ESPN national correspondent and Navy veteran Sal Paolantonio. Tables for 12 for the event sold for $12,000 earlier this year. Other appropriate pageantry, including music from The U.S. Navy Band, will also be an integral part of the program.