05/16/2026
Armed Forces Day is a national observance honoring the men and women serving in all branches of the U.S. military, from the Army to the Space Force. It reflects their role in safeguarding liberty, supporting global stability, and serving with valor and devotion. Created in 1949 after the National Security Act unified the armed services, it was proclaimed by President Harry S. Truman to replace separate branch-specific days, with the first celebration held in 1950 under the theme “Teamed for Defense.”