In honor of my beloved US Navy, here’s a birthday tribute.
A 13 October 1775 resolution of the Continental Congress established what is now the United States Navy with “a swift sailing vessel, to carry ten carriage guns, and a proportionable number of swivels, with eighty men, be fitted, with all possible despatch, for a cruise of three months….” After the American War of Independence, the U.S. Constitution empowered the new Congress “to provide and maintain a navy.” Acting on this authority, Congress established the Department of the Navy on 30 April 1798.
In 1972, Chief of Naval Operations Admiral Elmo R. Zumwalt authorized official recognition of 13 October as the birthday of the U.S. Navy. Since then, each CNO has encouraged a Navy-wide celebration of this occasion “to enhance a greater appreciation of our Navy heritage, and to provide a positive influence toward pride and professionalism in the naval service.”
13 October 2020 will mark the Navy's 245th Birthday. The central theme of this year's 245th birthday and heritage week will be "Victory at Sea," which encompasses the Navy's efforts in battle during World War II in the Pacific Theater.
May we be ever ready, ever present and ever victorious.
Here’s to the US Navy, long may we sail.
Semper Fortis
Chief Chuck
Semper Fortis, Chief!