The United States Navy Celebrates 250 Years

“Forged by the Sea”

By Paula Green

In our June issue, we highlighted that the Army, Marines, and Navy all mark their 250th anniversaries this year, with the Navy's on October 13, 1775. This month, we will set sail and explore the Navy's remarkable 250-year history, from its evolution to its earliest days.

Looking back to 1775, the Revolutionary War ignited tensions with Great Britain, prompting the Continental Congress to establish the Continental Navy. This move recognized the need to defend American shores and secure independence. It also marked the formation of the Navy's journey.

After the Revolutionary War, during which the naval fleet comprised approximately 65 ships, only 11 ships survived. In 1785, Congress disbanded the Navy and sold the remaining ships. As a result, for nine years, our country was without a naval presence at sea. However, the Naval Act of 1794 reestablished it to combat the growing threat of Barbary pirates, signaling a new era.

The Navy was reestablished in 1798. When it became its own government department, it was led first by Benjamin Stoddert, who further solidified its organizational structure and national significance.

As decades passed, the Navy continued to evolve, growing into a major force during the War of 1812. In 1814, Congress tasked it with protecting overseas commerce. As new missions emerged, naval hospitals were built. In 1845, George Bancroft founded the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland expanding both its mission and institutions.

Much later, the Navy faced new, horrific challenges. On December 7, 1941, the Japanese bombed Pearl Harbor, sinking eight U.S. Navy ships. The attack marked the beginning of a four-year period of major battles, including the Coral Sea, Midway, and Leyte Gulf—the largest naval battle in history.

Interestingly, several U.S. Presidents served in the Navy, including John F. Kennedy, who commanded PT-109 in World War II, as well as Lyndon B. Johnson, Richard Nixon, Gerald Ford, Jimmy Carter, and George H. W. Bush. These leaders reflect the Navy’s enduring tradition of service.

Here are a few other interesting Navy facts: the name "SEAL" stands for "Sea, Air, and Land," referencing the rigorous training that allows these elite special operations forces to operate in all environments. 

"Anchors Aweigh," the Navy's theme song, debuted at Franklin Field in Philadelphia during the Army-Navy game on December 1, 1906, enriching the Navy's legacy. The Navy's renowned flight demonstration squadron, the Blue Angels, was established to increase public interest in naval aviation and boost morale. 

Looking ahead, Philadelphia will host the Navy's 250th birthday celebration from October 9 to 15. Events will include parades, ceremonies, flyovers, reenactments, ship tours, and community gatherings. The highlight, the Homecoming 250 Gala, is set for October 11 at the National Constitution Center, honoring Navy heritage and uniting its past with the present.

Northern Connection magazine proudly honors the unwavering dedication and sacrifice of all U.S. Navy members. As we mark this historic occasion, we wish the Navy a spectacular 250th birthday celebration!