“We must never forget why we have, and why we need our military. Our armed forces exist solely to ensure our nation is safe, so that each and every one of us can sleep soundly at night, knowing we have ‘guardians at the gate.’” -Allen West
On what day is National Armed Forces celebrated? The third Saturday in May
What is National Armed Forces Day? National Armed Forces Day is a day to pay tribute to men and women who serve the United States’ armed forces. Armed Forces Day marks the end of Armed Forces Week, which begins on the second Saturday of May.
Who founded this day? This day was created in 1949 to honor Americans serving in the five U.S. military branches—the U.S. Army, U.S. Navy, U.S. Marine Corps, U.S. Air Force and U.S. Coast Guard—following the consolidation of the military services in the U.S. Department of Defense.
What is the hashtag? Use the hashtag #ArmedForcesDay when sharing on social media.
How to celebrate: The first Armed Forces Day was celebrated with parades, open houses, receptions and air shows. The United States’ longest, continuously running Armed Forces Day Parade is held in Bremerton, WA. In 2017 Bremerton celebrated the 69th year of the Armed Forces Day Parade.
Here are some ways to celebrate in your hometown:
- Find a local event—whether it is a 5K race, picnic or parade
- Volunteer with a military charity
- Write a letter to a deployed military member
- Create a care package for a man or woman serving overseas
- Donate to a military-based organization
There are many other national days on our website. Try browsing one of our categories, or even create your own!