National Armed Forces Day Timeline

August 31, 1949

Armed Forces Day is Created

United States Secretary of Defense Louis Johnson announces a single holiday to celebrate all branches of the military.

May 20, 1950

First Celebration

Armed Forces Day is celebrated for the first time.

1962

JFK Makes It Official

President John F. Kennedy establishes Armed Forces Day as an official holiday.

May 19, 2017

Trump Reaffirms

President Trump sends out a statement supporting the holiday and its almost 70 years of tradition.