June 14, 1775, is recognized as the founding date of the U.S. Army, 250 years before the 2025 Army anniversary connected with America250.
On that day, the Continental Congress authorized the enlistment of riflemen for service in the United Colonies. Congress also assumed responsibility for existing New England forces and began organizing a continental military structure during the siege of Boston.
The date is celebrated annually as the U.S. Army Birthday. It is separate from Independence Day, which commemorates the Declaration of Independence in 1776, and from the birthdays of the Navy and Marine Corps, which trace to different 1775 congressional actions.
The Army’s historical predecessor was the Continental Army. Although the name and organization changed over time, June 14 remains the traditional founding date recognized by the modern United States Army.