The United States Navy traces its official establishment to October 13, 1775, reaching 250 years during the America250 period.
On that date, the Second Continental Congress authorized the purchase of two vessels to be armed for a cruise against British merchant ships. The action created the Continental Navy, which the modern Navy recognizes as its institutional beginning.
The Continental Navy was not identical to today's permanent Navy. It operated during the Revolutionary War and was eventually disbanded after the conflict. A permanent standing Navy was later established through the Naval Act of 1794, which authorized six frigates.
The Navy celebrates its birthday on October 13. This anniversary is separate from the founding dates of the Army and Marine Corps, although all three services trace important origins to the Revolutionary era.