[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 82 (Friday, May 18, 2018)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E681]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                            ARMED FORCES DAY

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                          HON. MAC THORNBERRY

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                          Friday, May 18, 2018

  Mr. THORNBERRY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Armed Forces 
Day in honor of the brave men and women who have served and who are 
serving in the United States Armed Forces during times of war and 
peace.
   Celebrated annually on the third Saturday of May, Armed Forces Day 
came into existence on August 31, 1949, when Secretary of Defense Louis 
Johnson announced that this single day would replace the individual 
celebrations for the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, and Air Force. President 
Harry Truman led the effort to establish a holiday for citizens to 
unite and to honor our military heroes for their patriotic service in 
support of the United States of America.
   Armed Forces Day also plays an essential part in educating society 
and expanding public knowledge of the military and the important role 
they play in every community. The first official Armed Forces Day took 
place on May 20, 1950, and was themed ``Teamed for Defense.'' In an 
excerpt from the Presidential Proclamation of Feb. 27, 1950, President 
Truman stated:
   ``Armed Forces Day, Saturday, May 20, 1950, marks the first combined 
demonstration by America's defense team of its progress, under the 
National Security Act, toward the goal of readiness for any 
eventuality. It is the first parade of preparedness by the unified 
forces of our land, sea, and air defense.''
   Generations of men and women have answered the call of a nation in 
need, and on Armed Forces Day, we are especially mindful of their 
service, sacrifice, and that of their families. I appreciate what 
communities all over the country do to honor those responsible for our 
freedom, and I am hopeful we will continue to honor and support our 
military in all its strength.

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