7 FUN FACTS ABOUT THE MILITARY TO SHARE DURING MILITARY APPRECIATION MONTH
May is National Military Appreciation Month, a fantastic time to wave our flags a little higher and give a hearty "thank you!" to the incredible individuals who serve and have served in our nation's Armed Forces. Their dedication, bravery, and sacrifice are monumental. But amidst the serious commitment, there's a long and fascinating history filled with unique traditions and some truly surprising moments.
So, in the spirit of celebration, let's pull back the curtain and share some light-hearted and engaging fun facts about the military that you can share with everyone in your life this May.
7 Fun Facts About the Military to Share With Friends & Family
1. The Air Force Took a While to Get Its Own Wings (Literally!)
Believe it or not, the U.S. Air Force wasn't always its own separate branch. It actually began as part of the U.S. Army.
The U.S. Army Signal Corps established an Aeronautical Division in 1907. It went through a few name changes and organizational shifts before officially becoming a separate branch, the United States Air Force, on September 18, 1947.
2. Women Have Been Involved in the Military Since It Began
Women have had an instrumental role in the inception and success of our nation’s military. Early on, women commonly held roles as nurses, seamstresses, and cooks, but did you know that many stepped into the spotlight and held remarkable positions?
Some women even wore disguises to look like men so that they could serve their country and fight on the frontlines during the Revolutionary and Civil War.
One remarkable woman was Sarah Emma Edmonds, who enlisted in the Army under a man’s name and became a spy for the Union Army, carrying out eleven missions behind enemy lines.
3. Canines Can Outrank Their Handlers (Sort Of!)
Military working dogs are highly valued members of the armed forces, trained for detection, patrol, and more.
There's a tradition, often light-heartedly mentioned, that military working dogs are always one rank higher than their handlers.
This isn't an official regulation for pay or saluting, but it highlights the immense respect given to these four-legged heroes, ensuring they receive proper treatment and care.
4. The DoD Is the Largest Employer in the U.S.
You may be surprised to learn that the DoD is actually the largest employer in the U.S.
With more than 1.4 million active-duty personnel and 1.1 million National Guard and Reserve personnel working for the DoD, they have certainly earned the “top employer” title.
5. The Army Is Responsible for Creating Ray-Bans
Summer is right around the corner, meaning that it’s time to break out the Ray-Bans.
While this eyewear has become a summer staple, you might be surprised to learn that they were originally created to help pilots in the U.S. Air Force block the rays of the sun while flying.
They helped reduce nausea and headaches while in the air. In fact, the request for these iconic shades was placed by Lieutenant General John MacCready.
6. The Army is Older Than the U.S. Itself
Is the Army technically the older sibling of the U.S.? Yes!
George Washington led the first continental army in June of 1775.
Our country was founded on July 4, 1776, meaning that the Army is one year older than our country.
7. The Medal of Honor Dates Back to Abraham Lincoln
During the 1800s, Senator James Grimes created a bill to promote the Navy’s efficiency, and to create the Medal of Honor. President Lincoln signed the bill into effect, authorizing the production of 200 medals.
The first medal of honor was awarded in 1862 to Private Jacob Parrott for his role in the “The Great Locomotive Chase.” Today, thousands of individuals have been awarded this honor.
Share These Fun Facts About the Military With Your Friends & Family
These are just a handful of the fascinating and fun facts about the military. Our Armed Forces have a rich tapestry of history, innovation, and culture. This Military Appreciation Month, as we honor our nation's military, let's also enjoy learning about the many intriguing stories that make our military unique. Have another fun military fact to share? Let us know!
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