The U.S. Army was founded on June 14, 1775, making its 250th anniversary part of the wider America250 era.
The Second Continental Congress established the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War. The force was created to coordinate the military defense of the colonies against British forces, and George Washington was appointed its commander in chief soon afterward.
June 14 is also observed as the U.S. Army's birthday and coincides with Flag Day, which commemorates the adoption of the Stars and Stripes in 1777. The Army's anniversary therefore falls about a year before the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
The Continental Army was not identical to today's U.S. Army, but it is recognized as its predecessor. The Army is the oldest service branch of the United States military.