Hooah! Tomorrow, June 14, is most assuredly a special day for BVA members who have served in the nation’s oldest military branch. They, with millions of other Americans across the nation, will contemplate the once improbable milestone of 250 years since the United States Army’s founding on June 14, 1775, a full year before independence from the British was declared.

Unlike other Army birthdays, this celebration will not be limited to those who have worn the Army uniform. Tomorrow at 2:50pm Eastern Time, in fact, citizens across the country will participate in a national moment of recognition to pause and reflect on the Army’s legacy and its role in preserving liberty.

The Army is hosting celebratory events throughout the month of June, culminating in a national birthday extravaganza on the National Mall in Washington, DC, a wreath laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery, live music, a parade, fireworks, and appearances by senior military leaders and veterans.

For a full list of events and ways to get involved, whether by attending a local celebration, volunteering, or simply sharing your own Army story, visit the Army’s official website.

As the Army marks this achievement, it invites every American to join in celebrating the legacy of the nation’s oldest military branch—and the people who have kept it strong for 250 years and counting. In 2026, America will mark 250 years as a nation. Help celebrate and preserve the stories of veterans and military families so that future generations will see these extraordinary American lives front and center in the record of America at 250.

America250 will use these stories to help create a full portrait of America at 250 years to share with our fellow Americans and to pass down to future generations. If you are interested and have not already done so via this venue, share your story today.

The U.S. Army was established on June 14, 1775, when the Continental Congress authorized the enlistment of riflemen to serve the United Colonies for one year. Consistent with what later actually happened, many indeed believed at the time that the creation of the force would result in efforts to gain independence from the British. Support for this resilient branch of the military has prevailed ever since.