The U.S. Army was founded on June 14, 1775, a date recognized during the broader America250 period because the Army also reached its 250th anniversary in 2025.
The Second Continental Congress created the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War. Congress appointed George Washington as its commanding general, and the new force brought colonial military units under continental direction.
The Army’s birthday is observed annually on June 14. That date is separate from Independence Day, which commemorates the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. The Army therefore became 250 years old one year before the nation’s 250th anniversary.
America250-related observances included a major Army anniversary parade in June 2025. The event connected the military institution’s founding with the longer national story leading to the 2026 semiquincentennial.