An official website of the United States government
Here's how you know
A .mil website belongs to an official U.S. Department of Defense organization in the United States.
A lock (lock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .mil website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

News | Oct. 17, 2016

Navy birthday: “Tough, Bold and Ready” for 241 years

By DLA Distribution Public Affairs DLA Distribution Public Affairs

To commemorate the Navy’s 241st birthday and celebrate its theme “Tough, Bold and Ready,” DLA Distribution took a look back at the service’s rich history on Oct. 13.

Employees gathered around as deputy commander Twila Gonzales, Senior Executive Service, recounted how the Navy began during the Revolutionary War and was subsequently disbanded, only to be reinstated by the Naval Act of 1794.    

“Since its birth, the American Navy has come to the aid of freedom around the world.  Events such as Pearl Harbor, Normandy, Vietnam, the Persian Gulf, the bombing of the USS Cole and the terrorist attacks of September 11 evoke memories of tragedies and victories that linger long after the years pass by,” said Gonzales.

“Continuing in its 18th century charter, to protect the seas and the freedoms of the nation, the Navy extends its reach far beyond our shores and to the oceans around the world,” she continued.  “Today, I ask you to remember the sailors who fought more than 200 years ago, and also those who serve now and have given another year of sacrifice, service and time away from family and friends.”

In closing, Gonzales thanked all of the organization’s active, reserve and retired Navy sailors, and invited them forward to help her cut the ceremonial cake.