The birth of our military branches is rich in history, as well as a few fun facts! At IHG® Army Hotels, we are excited to celebrate all of our military branch birthdays, and we hope you’ll join in and celebrate with us throughout the year.
Three of our military branches celebrate their birthdays during the fall season, while a couple others celebrate in the summer months (looking at you U.S. Army and U.S. Coast Guard). Service members often find these days to be extra exciting, because they are essentially celebrating a second birthday!
July kicks off the birthday celebrations for the year with the U.S. Army.
United States Army
Nickname for Service Members: Soldiers
Date of Inception: June 14th, 1775
When the Continental Congress allowed for the enlistment of riflemen to protect the union, the US Army was born. While technically only being allowed to operate for one year, the Army quickly proved that a show of force was necessary year-round. Therefore, it was allowed to remain in continuous operation and readiness. The Army’s birthday is an enjoyable time for many—especially those who know how to bake—as soldiers are notoriously suckers for baked goods.
United States Coast Guard
Nickname for Service Members: “Coastie”
Date of Inception: August 4th, 1790
Our nation’s Coast Guard was founded by George Washington himself. It began when Washington signed a traffic act allowing for the creation of ten rescue and surveillance vessels. These ten ships became known as “cutters,” and have carried that title ever since.
So, if you see a Coastie on the 4th of August, wish them a warm Happy Birthday. Why a warm one? Because it is very cold in Cape Mary, New Jersey, where all recruits go through training.
United States Air Force
Nickname for Service Members: “Airman”
Date of Inception: September 18th, 1947
The Air Force as we know it today came out of the National Security Act, which was passed by congress in mid-September of 1947. On its birthday, airmen celebrate their technological advances and the fact that they are still the largest military branch, despite being the most recently formed.
United States Navy
Nickname for Service Members: “Sailor”
Date of Inception: October 13, 1775
Anchors Aweigh! Our country’s “Continental Navy” (its original name) was chartered by the “Continental Congress” in early October of 1775. Navy birthday celebrations are directed each year by the Chief of Naval Operations, who encourages all units, ships, and bases to celebrate their sailors and families.
United States Marine Corps
Nickname for Service Members: Various
Date of Inception: November 10th, 1775
Founded for the purpose of being an invasion force and to protect the security of ships, the United States Marine Corps was founded in Tun Tavern, Philadelphia, in 1775. You’ll want sure you wish every Marine and their families a Happy Birthday. The Marine Corps tends to have some of the largest celebrations, so if you live in a town with close proximity to a Marine Corps instillation, expect some sort of community birthday celebration!
United States National Guard
Date of Inception: December 14th, 1636
Hailed as the oldest component of armed forces in the nation, the National Guard celebrates its birthday on December 14th. Tell your fellow “guardsmen” Happy Birthday!
