(army.mil)
In June of 1775, things were heating up in the colonies. Just two months after the famous running battle of Lexington and Concord, the British found themselves bottled up in Boston, with American rebel forces surrounding and looking down on them from the heights above.
The British were intent on chasing them off. On June 16, they attacked and won the day, but not without sustaining devastating casualties. The Battle of Bunker Hill became an inspiration and rallying cry for the loose coalition of colonies.
Two days before that, however, was an event that would have an even greater effect on the American revolution and all U.S. wars after that. On June 14, 1775 the Continental Congress authorized an army. Its first inductee was a quiet Virginia gentleman by the name of George Washington.
Today, in contrast to the disorganized and desperate mob of militias that came together to confront the British empire, today’s Army is the best in the world and without peer.
Much has changed, but one thing has remained unaltered. The service started because its country needed it, and after 240 years, the country still does.
Happy birthday to the Soldiers, officers and veterans of the U.S. Army.
