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News | June 14, 2021

DLA Distribution Commanding General's US Army birthday message

By DLA Distribution Public Affairs

Today, June 14th is the 246th birthday of the United States Army; I would like to wish all our current and former Soldiers and our DLA Distribution employees a Very Happy Army Birthday!

The Department of the Army has declared this year's focus “People First” and the Army Birthday theme as: Honoring the Courage of the American Soldier.

The Army originally consisted of volunteer soldiers with roots to the Continental Army — and was formed to fight the Revolutionary War. Today, as the largest branch of the U.S. military, the proud men and women of the U.S. Army continue to provide peace and security for our great nation.

In 1775 the Continental Army was formed by the Second Continental Congress and commanded under General George Washington to fight against the British army. On June 14, 1775, the Continental Congress passed a resolution adopting the New England Army of Observation, making it a “continental” Army — a united colonial fighting force — that could represent all 13 colonies with the addition of the troops from the three middle colonies.

The Continental Army thus became America’s first national institution. Congress declared independence July 4, 1776 and the Continental Army and the militia in the service of Congress became collectively known as the Army of the United States.

Celebrating the Army Birthday honors those Americans in uniform who serve our great nation in times of war and peace and under the motto: “This We’ll Defend.” No matter the challenges the Army has faced along with our nation, Army Soldiers and Civilians have had the courage and patriotism to answer the call to serve.

Today, I ask you to remember the soldiers who fought more than 200 years ago, and also those who serve now and have given another year of sacrifice, service and time way from family and friends.

I along with Mr. Knight, retired U.S. Army, would like to thank each and every one of you for your continued support to our warfighters as they continue to answer the nation’s call.

Happy Birthday Army! HOOAH!