[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 96 (Thursday, June 14, 2007)]
[Senate]
[Pages S7724-S7725]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                232ND BIRTHDAY OF THE UNITED STATES ARMY

  Mr. HAGEL. Mr. President, I rise today to wish the U.S. Army a happy 
birthday. It was 232 years ago today, June 14, 1775, that the 
Continental Army of the United States was formed.
  Over the past 232 years, millions of men and women have served in the 
oldest branch of our Armed Forces. Their honor, courage, sacrifice, and 
service are the foundation of America's greatness. The Army principles 
of ``Duty, Honor, Country'' represent the core values of America. Every 
generation of Americans who have served in the U.S. Army--from the 
Continental Army to our fighting men and women serving today in Iraq, 
Afghanistan, and elsewhere--has been shaped by these principles. They 
inspire us and will continue to serve as role models for future 
generations.
  The Army has steadfastly protected our way of life and has never 
turned from a challenge. As the Army Song so eloquently says:

     First to fight for the right,
     And to build the Nation's might,
     And The Army Goes Rolling Along,
     Proud of all we have done,
     Fighting till the battle's won,
     And the Army Goes Rolling Along.

  Today's soldiers are the newest generation in a long line of 
dedicated professionals who have put service to the Nation over self. 
These soldiers, just as those who have gone before them, will continue 
to protect our democracy and make the world more secure, peaceful, and 
prosperous.
  On this 232nd birthday of the U.S. Army, we recognize and thank all 
those who have served or are serving our country with pride and honor 
in the uniform of the U.S. Army, especially those serving today in Iraq 
and Afghanistan.
  ``Happy Birthday'' to the U.S. Army.
  HOOAH!!!!
  Mr. MARTINEZ. Mr. President, today, the U.S. Army celebrates its 
232nd birthday. Since a time before the signing of the Declaration of 
Independence, the body that soon became the U.S. Army has proudly 
served the people of this land. This is a birthday that should be 
recognized by all Americans. Created by the Second Continental Congress 
in Philadelphia on June 14, 1775, our Founding Fathers possessed great 
vision when making the decision to establish the Army. They realized 
the importance of having a well-trained, reliable, always-ready Army to 
defend freedom and the rights of the people. The U.S. Army and its 
soldiers have admirably served in more than ten wars from the American 
Revolution to the present war on terrorism.
  All branches of our military know the deepest depths of sacrifice; 
and as our oldest military branch, the U.S. Army and its 232nd birthday 
symbolize

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centuries of struggle and sacrifice on behalf of us all. Members of our 
armed services valiantly serve and strive to keep us safe, protect our 
way of life, and defend freedom whenever and wherever it is in harm's 
way. This June 14th--the day we also celebrate Flag Day--reminds us of 
the meaning of patriotism and the importance of service to country.
  As there are Army birthday celebrations going on across the country--
and the world--today, we should once again pause to remember the 
dedication of our brave men and women in uniform and their commitment 
to ``Duty, Honor, Country.''
  To every member of our military--whether a veteran, active duty, or 
reserve--and your families, we say, thank you. You have helped, and 
continue to help keep our country free, safe, and secure. We honor your 
dedication and continual sacrifices.
  And to the Army on this day, I say, Happy Birthday. Thank you for 
helping to keep America safe and free for us and the next generation. 
As the Army's slogan states: ``Army Strong.''

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