The U.S. will celebrate Armed Forces Day 2024 on 18 May. This holiday pays tribute to the men and women who serve in all six branches of our military and acknowledges their dedication, sacrifices, and the pivotal role they play in safeguarding our nation's interests, security and ideals. These military personnel come from all backgrounds, serving together as one, and united by a common mission to defend and protect. And this diversity strengthens the armed forces, reflecting the rich tapestry of the nation they defend. Celebrating them on Armed Forces Day underscores their strategic significance and fosters a collective appreciation for their contributions to national defense and global stability.
The Office of Enterprise Management (OEM) joins in honoring these heroes by examining the history of this day, sharing how the U.S. Army recognizes it, and providing ways everyone can show their appreciation for our military men and women.
The Origins of Armed Forces Day
In 1947, the National Security Act was passed, which led to the unification of the armed forces under the Department of Defense (DoD). Prior to that, each branch of the military had its own day of celebration. In an effort to reinforce the unification of the six U.S. military branches under one central agency, U.S. Secretary of Defense Louis Johnson announced the creation of Armed Forces Day in 1949. In 1950, President Harry S. Truman made it a holiday and the first Armed Forces Day was celebrated on 20 May 1950.
The theme of the first Armed Forces Day was "Teamed for Defense." It was chosen as a means of expressing the unification of all the military forces. It was also to increase awareness of the Armed Forces. The holiday was designed to expand public understanding role of the military in civilian life and show "state-of- the-art" equipment to the civilian population they were protecting.
How the Army Celebrates Armed Forces Day
Today, the Army's recognition of Armed Forces Day is marked by various events and activities that showcase its capabilities and achievements. These include military parades, air shows, equipment and technology demonstrations, and community outreach programs.
One of the key aspects of Armed Forces Day for the Army is highlighting its role in national defense and security. It's a time to recognize the dedication and professionalism of Army personnel, from active-duty soldiers to reservists and veterans. Many installations and units open their doors to the public, allowing civilians to get a firsthand look at Army life and operations.
In addition to public events, the Army often conducts internal celebrations to boost morale and camaraderie among its ranks. This includes awards ceremonies, family days, and social gatherings where soldiers and their families come together to celebrate their service and commitment to the nation. Here are just a few events that the Army is hosting across the country this year:
Events in the Washington, DC Region
Saturday 18 May 2024
America's Armed Forces Kids Run
9 AM ET
Fort Belvoir
https://belvoir.armymwr.com/calendar/event/88515
Proud to Serve 6k
8-11 AM ET
Jamestown High School
Williamsburg, Virginia
Run/Walk/Virtual Event
DJ/Post Race Refreshments
https://runsignup.com/Race/VA/Williamsburg/PROUDTOSERVE6KRUNWALKVIRTUALEVENT
Armed Forces Day-Pack the Convoy
10 AM-3PM
Bedford, Virginia
Enjoy the D-Day Memorial and help to pack donated items
$2 of admission at the gate with donated item
Free admission for active duty members and up to five family members
https://www.dday.org/events/armed-forces-day-pack-the-convoy/
Armed Forces Day Celebration
5 PM ET
Armed Forces Brewing Company
Norfolk, VA
Live Music, Food Truck and Raffles
Parading the Colors and Singing of the National Anthem
Benefits the charity: Fisher House Foundation
https://armedforcesbrewingco.com/event/armed-forces-day/
American Veterans Ball
5:30 PM ET VIP Reception/ 6 PM ET General Admission/ 7 PM ET Official Ceremony
Washington Hilton, DC
The event is honors veterans, preserves their legacies, promotes veteran suicide awareness, and empowers them to prevail in life challenges while living purposeful-driven lives post-active service. The proceeds from this event will be dedicated to funding vital veteran initiatives, youth leadership camps, JROTC programs, inspiring educational scholarships, and future AVB endeavors.
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/american-veterans-ball-avb2024-tickets-674797556657
Events Across the Country
Saturday 18 May 2024
Fort McCoy’s 2024 Armed Forces Day Open House
9 AM ET-3PM ET
Fort McCoy, WI
Guided installation bus tours, camouflage face painting, military equipment displays, marksmanship galleries, a special ceremony honoring Vietnam veterans, and more.
https://www.dvidshub.net/news/469007/fort-mccoys-2024-armed-forces-day-open-house-set-may-18
Armed Forces Day Parade & Celebration
10 AM ET-2 PM ET
Fort Bliss
El Paso, TX
Parade, Military workingdog demonstrations, Military static displays, InterXtreme Inflatables, food truck court,music, gamesmore.
https://bliss.armymwr.com/calendar/event/armed-forces-day-parade-and-celebration/6384731/87246
Letterkenny Army Depot Celebrates Armed Forces Day 2024
11 AM ET-2 PM ET
James Finley House
Chambersburg, PA
Exhibits, re-enactors, bus tours of the depot and more.
https://www.letterkenny.army.mil/Armed-Forces-Day-2024/
Armed Forces Day is an honored day for our nation to come together and celebrate our military’s achievements. OEM is happy to celebrate Armed Forces Day and carries forward the spirit of appreciation and recognition for our services every single day.
