Service members, civilians, families, elected officials, and community members gathered at the installation community

On June 14, 1775, the Continental Congress voted to replace the colonies' part-time militias with a full-time army – and after 1,300 battles and skirmishes, the Army, led by Gen. George Washington, defeated the British Empire,

Millions of American soldiers have marched in military parades since the Civil War, which marked the tradition as a fundamental ritual of American unity.

America’s oldest military service turns 250 on Saturday. If you see an active duty, former, or retired member of the Army, wish their service a happy birthday.