What posthumous military rank did George Washington receive during the 1976 Bicentennial?

George Washington received the posthumous rank of General of the Armies of the United States during the 1976 Bicentennial.

Congress authorized the appointment through Public Law 94-479, passed on January 19, 1976. The appointment had an effective date of July 4, 1976, the 200th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.

The honor recognized Washington’s leadership as commander in chief of the Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War. It also restored him symbolically to the highest military position in U.S. history, above the rank held by later generals.

Washington had been appointed a general during his lifetime, but the specific title General of the Armies was created as a superior rank. The 1976 law therefore did not describe an active military promotion; it was a commemorative posthumous honor tied to the national anniversary.