WESTERN KY (5/18/12)—While many may take issue with the politics involved with war, as well as the unfortunate results felt by all parties involved, most anyone will agree that a dutiful soldier should be celebrated for their selfless dedication and sacrifice. From the Army and Navy, to the Marines, Air Force, Coast Guard, and beyond, the men and women who serve within the U.S. military lay their lives on the frontlines of our nation both at home and abroad.

In honor of this fact and to promote the military in all aspects, the United States celebrates “Armed Forces Day” on the third Saturday of May each year. This year, 2012, national Armed Forces Day will be observed on May 19th, which is also the culmination of Armed Forces Week.

First celebrated over 60 years ago on May 20th, 1950, the inaugural Armed Forces Day served as a means to nationally officiate the unification of the Army, Navy, and Air Force under the Department of Defense while also praising the work of the military services as a whole and educating civilians on “state of the art” equipment.

In an excerpt from the Presidential Proclamation of February 27th, 1950, US President Harry S. Truman stated that, “Armed Forces Day, Saturday, May 20th, 1950, marks the first combined demonstration by America’s defense team of its progress, under the National Security Act, towards the goal of readiness for any eventuality. It is the first parade of preparedness by the unified forces of our land, sea, and air defense.”

Though the official theme of the first celebration was created as “Teamed for Defense” (an expression of the recent military consolidation), many prevailing themes have since been used, including, but not limited to, “Appreciation of Nation,” “Freedom Through Unity,” “Power of Peace,” “Dedication and Devotion,” and “Patriotism.”

Today, the method by which each community celebrates Armed Forces Day varies from parades to live air shows, yet the basic premise can be achieved by anyone. You want to participate? All you need to do is say “Thank You” to our nation’s troops and service members.

Want to learn more? Want to get involved on a deeper level? If so, check out the following official military website: http://www.ourmilitary.mil. You can also learn more by visiting the official Department of Defense website by clicking here.

Luke Short
SurfKY News
Image and some information provided by the US Department of Defense

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