05/16/2026
The third Saturday of May is set aside as Armed Forces Day since August 31, 1949 (first celebration the next year on May 20, 1950). On Memorial Day we remember the brave men and women who gave their lives for our country and on Veterans Day we honor the ones who fought and came home, but today on Armed Forces Day we want to honor the ones who are out there right now - serving all over the world helping keep our country safe.
This holiday is only an observance, not a federal holiday. The date was chosen by then Secretary of Defense Louis Johnson who wanted a day with weather warm enough for people to get outside to celebrate but not interfere with summer vacation travel, and also not overlapping with other commemoration days that would cause it to be overlooked. It is followed closely by Memorial Day, which falls on the last Monday in May.
As we go about our busy Saturday today, take a moment or several to think about our soldiers. Some are close to home and family, others are deployed far away, all following the noble call of duty to protect our country and people in the name of freedom. And if you see a soldier, tell them thank you and wish them safety.
Please join us on this Armed Forces Day 2026, a day we get to celebrate men and women in the US military currently serving. Memorial Day is around the corner, and it recognizes those who have lost their life in the line of duty. Those who have served in the past are celebrated on Veterans Day.