Happy 236th Birthday U.S. Navy!
‘Remembering our Past to Secure our Future’
The Freedom of the Seas
During the American Revolutionary War, to intercept and capture British supply ships near Massachusetts, George Washington announced on October 13, 1775 that he had taken command of three armed schooners under Continental authority. This action resulted in the creation of the Continental Navy, which ultimately evolved into the U.S. Navy.
Nearly a decade later, in response to attacks by Barbary Pirates, Congress ordered the construction and manning of six frigates on March 27, 1794. Three years later, the USS United States, USS Constellation and USS Constitution, were welcomed into the U.S. Navy.
Since that time, many of you, our Veteran brothers and sisters have proudly worn the U.S. Navy uniform, protecting our nation, the American people and our many freedoms carrying out the – Mission of the Navy:
“To maintain, train and equip combat-ready Naval forces capable of winning wars, deterring aggression and maintaining freedom of the seas.”
U.S. Navy Today
Presently, the U.S. Navy is the largest naval fleet in the world with over 328,516 men and women on active duty and nearly 101,689 on reserve, with 286 ships in active service, and more than 3,700 aircraft. The U.S. Navy’s battle fleet tonnage is greater than that of the next 13 world navies combined! The U.S. Navy also has the world’s largest carrier fleet. The three principal components of the Navy are: The Navy Department; the Operating Forces (including the Marines, reserves & in time of war, the U.S. Coast Guard); and the shore establishment.
