U.S Navy Day
Navy Day in the United States is celebrated every year on October 27. This date holds historical significance as it is widely recognized as the birthday of the United States Navy, commemorating its origins during the early days of the American Revolution.
The beginnings of the U.S. Navy can be traced back to October 13, 1775, when the Continental Congress passed a resolution to fit out two armed vessels to cruise in search of munitions ships supplying the British Army in America. This resolution marked the formal beginning of the Continental Navy, which later evolved into what we know today as the United States Navy. Despite this official founding date of October 13, Navy Day is celebrated on October 27 because of a different connection—this date was chosen in honor of President Theodore Roosevelt, who was born on October 27, 1858, and was a strong proponent of naval power.
The idea for Navy Day was first proposed in 1922 by the Navy League of the United States, a civilian organization that supports the Navy and maritime interests. The Navy League selected October 27 as the day of celebration not only to honor Roosevelt’s birthday but also to recognize his role in transforming the U.S. Navy into a powerful global force during his presidency. At the time, the date was also believed to be closely tied to the founding of the Navy, as it was around this time in 1775 that the Continental Congress was actively engaged in discussions and actions that led to the establishment of a naval force.
Navy Day was widely observed from 1922 through the mid-20th century and included parades, ship visits, open houses at naval installations, and various ceremonies honoring the men and women who serve in the Navy. It served as a national day of recognition for the Navy's contributions to national security and maritime strength.
In 1972, the U.S. Navy officially shifted its celebration of its founding to October 13, aligning it more precisely with the historical record of the Continental Congress’s resolution. However, many people and organizations still recognize October 27 as Navy Day due to its traditional significance and its association with President Roosevelt.
Today, while October 13 is marked as the official birthday of the U.S. Navy, October 27 continues to be observed in some circles as Navy Day, especially by historical societies, veterans' organizations, and patriotic groups. It remains a day to reflect on the Navy’s long-standing role in protecting American interests at sea, to honor the service and sacrifices of Navy personnel past and present, and to appreciate the importance of naval strength in both times of war and peace.
