Wilkes County Veterans History Project: Service Birthday Parties

Established on June 14, 1775, the U.S. Army is the oldest branch of the military. The Army was essential to the U.S. gaining independence because of the bravery of its soldiers during the Revolutionary War. Today, more than two centuries later, its members continue to defend and protect the country and its people.

The Army serves the country primarily by land and air. However, it does have a marine presence. These sea-savvy soldiers like to be called “Army mariners.” Within the branch, there are also several elite groups which receive specialized training - like the Rangers and the Night Stalkers - so they are equipped to handle unique combat situations.

This birthday is celebrated on October 13, 1775

The U.S. Navy is known for protecting the country by sea. However, even though they do that and do it well, they also serve on land and in the air. Within the service, members can choose to focus on one of more than 60 career specialties such as engineering, aviation and medicine.

A very famous elite group within the Navy is the Sea, Air and Land Forces - better known as the SEALs. They undergo some of the most physically demanding military training so they can execute the most challenging of missions. Their very specialized preparation consists of initial training (which takes more than a year to complete) followed by about 18 months of pre-deployment training, ensuring SEALs are ready for just about any circumstances.

Established on November 10, 1775

Although the U.S. Marine Corps is technically part of the Department of the Navy, it does stand alone as a separate branch of the military. It wasn’t always part of the Navy, though. Founded in 1775, the Marine Corps was actually an independent service until 1834. At first, President Andrew Jackson wanted to reorganize and add it to the Army. However, after some conversations, Congress added it to the Navy, making them “sister services” from then on.

The Marines are often the first on the ground in combat situations, leading the charge when conflict arises. They also serve on Navy ships, protect Naval bases and guard U.S. embassies.

The Air Force celebrates its birthday on September 18, 1947.

The Air Force aerially protects United States’ interests at home and abroad. Originally in the early 20th century, the Air Force was created as a unit of the Army, as was known as the Aeronautical Division. It wasn’t until 1947, after World War II, that the U.S. Air Force was founded as a separate branch of the military.

Today, there are more than 332,000 full-time active duty members of the Air Force. Aside from flying some of the fastest planes in the world, these service members work as engineers, medical professionals, lawyers and computer scientists.