On September 29, 1789, the United States Congress officially established the U.S. Army, a pivotal moment in the nation’s history. This significant event marked the beginning of what would become one of the most formidable military forces in the world, connecting us to our past and shaping our future. 

Fun Facts:

• The U.S. Army was officially founded on September 29, 1789, by an act of Congress to provide a permanent military force for the new nation.
• The U.S. Army’s lineage can be traced back to the Continental Army, which was established on June 14, 1775, to combat the British during the Revolutionary War. This historical connection underscores the U.S. Army’s rich heritage and its role in shaping the nation’s history.
• At its founding, the U.S. Army had just 700 soldiers tasked primarily with defending American frontiers and settlements. This humble beginning would eventually evolve into a global force with over one million active-duty, reserve, and National Guard members serving worldwide.
• President George Washington, a former commander of the Continental Army, advocated for a standing army to ensure national security.
• The U.S. Army’s initial encounters were with Native American tribes in the Northwest Territory as the young nation pushed its boundaries westward. These early engagements highlight the U.S. Army’s early role in American expansion and its interactions with indigenous peoples.
• The Army’s structure and regulations were based on European military traditions, especially from France and Prussia.
• Today, the U.S. Army is a global force with over one million active-duty, reserve, and National Guard members serving worldwide.
• The Army’s motto, “This We’ll Defend,” symbolizes its enduring commitment to protecting the United States. This steadfast dedication is a source of security and reassurance for the nation.