WASHINGTON — May 17 is Armed Forces Day, and the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) joins a thankful nation in proudly honoring our nation’s active duty, Guard and Reserve soldiers, Marines, sailors, airmen, guardians, and Coast Guardsmen who are defending freedom both here at home, and around the globe.
On Aug. 31, 1949, Secretary of Defense Louis Johnson announced the creation of an Armed Forces Day to replace separate Army, Navy, Marine Corps and Air Force Days. The single day celebration stemmed from the unification of the Armed Forces under the Department of Defense. Armed Forces Day is celebrated annually on the third Saturday in May, which occurs during Armed Forces Week and Military Appreciation Month. The 2025 White House Proclamation on Armed Forces Day can be found here.
Despite those who look to upend our great nation and threaten peace around the world, U.S. service members continue to stand ready to defend our nation and its freedoms. Even now, a new generation of Americans are raising their right hand to serve in defense of our country. They will undergo the rite of passage for their chosen branch and join the more than 1.3 million men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces doing what is asked of them – no matter the mission, no matter the location, no matter the cost.
The 1.4 million members of the VFW and its Auxiliary encourage all Americans to take a moment to reflect on the sacrifices made by our service members, and to find ways to show our deep and abiding gratitude for their dedication standing guard, not just this Armed Forces Day, but every day.
