248 years ago, the American Revolution was in full swing. The Continental Congress needed to attack the British on the water, a feat that was as bold as it was necessary. This would formally establish the U.S. Navy; although, it did disappear for a small period of time. From hunting down British ships to executing modern missions across the globe, the Navy birthday is a time to reflect and remember our nation’s fleet and all that it continues to accomplish. Related read: When is the Coast Guard Birthday? Coast Guard History & Facts

When Is the Navy Birthday?

October 13th is the Navy birthday, as that was the date in the year 1775 when the naval force was established by the Continental Congress. Its purpose was to attack British ships bringing in troops and supplies. However, running a naval force costs money. Two years following the American Revolution, the Navy was disbanded to help America with some of its financial issues. However, pirates continued and so did attacks from European navies bringing back the need for a naval force. Since this time, the U.S. Navy has defended our nation and has innovated with impressive feats. Even with rising threats from rivals such as China, the U.S. Navy remains the most powerful in the world. Establishing the Navy's birthday came in 1972 from Chief of Naval Operations Admiral Elmo Zumwalt. This would create an official holiday, though the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) celebrates it more internally. As of now, the U.S. Navy birthday is not a federal holiday.

More to Celebrate for Sailors in October

Sailors rejoice! Because during the 10th month of the year you have plenty to celebrate! Navy Day is also in October and was actually established in 1922 before our naval branch’s formal birthday was recognized. The purpose of Navy Day, which shares the birthday of President Teddy Roosevelt, is to celebrate everyone who has served in the Navy to defend our nation. Suggested read: What Is Armed Forces Day & Why Is It Important?

Celebrating the Navy Birthday 2023

If you’re looking to celebrate the brave Sailors that make up the greatest fleet in the world, there are plenty of options. Obviously, there are several patriotic things that you can do similar to other holidays, but here are a few unique elements to throw in:

• Head out to the U.S. Navy Birthday Ball hosted by the Navy League of the United States.
• Attend local ceremonies for cake, bell ringings, and celebrations.
• Look out for the reading of birthday messages from the CNO/SECNAV.
• Listen to Anchors Aweigh.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T-3ws7b4sZg For 248 years, our Sailors have been defending waters around the globe to ensure our safety and assist those in need. Here’s to the Navy birthday and many more to come! Read next: Why Don't Sailors Ever Wash Their Navy Coffee Mugs?