The U.S. Army will celebrate its 251st birthday on June 14, 2026, commemorating the Army's distinguished service to the nation. The central theme for this year’s celebration is “This We’ll Defend.”
Events in the Washington, D.C. – National Capital Region
On June 13, MDW will host the Army Birthday Run at Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall.
• Media interested in broadcasting live at the start of the run may contact the U.S. Army Military District of Washington at usarmy.mcnair.mdw.mbx.mediadesk-omb@army.mil
On June 15, MDW will host the Army Birthday Wreath-Laying Ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery.
• Media interested in attending the ceremony may contact the U.S. Army Military District of Washington at usarmy.mcnair.mdw.mbx.mediadesk-omb@army.mil. For more information, please visit www.arlingtoncemetery.mil
On June 15, Washington Nationals Park will honor the U.S. Army’s birthday at their annual “Army Day”
• Media interested in covering Army Day at Nationals Park may contact Washington Nationals Park at Events@Nationals.com. The event will feature performances by the U.S. Army Parachute and Drill Teams starting at 6:45 p.m.
Philadelphia Event
On June 14, AUSA will host the official Army Birthplace plaque unveiling at 3:15 p.m. in front of the Public Ledger Building.
• Media interested in covering the unveiling may contact Maj. William Leasure at william.l.leasure4.mil@army.mil. Event imagery will be available at www.dvidshub.net/feature/ARMY251.
For general information about the Army’s 251st birthday and Freedom250
• Main U.S. Army webpage, “U.S. Army Celebrating 251 Years,” at www.army.mil/1775
• Main Freedom250 webpage: www.freedom250.org
• Army 251st Birthday imagery at www.dvidshub.net/feature/ARMY251
• U.S. Army Center of Military History calendars at www.history.army.mil and www.history.army.mil/Revwar250
• The National Museum of the United States Army website at www.thenmusa.org
For over 251 years, the Army continues to provide endless opportunities to serve the nation and remains committed to honing warfighting skills, enforcing standards, and living the values that have always defined Army culture. With over 200 career choices for Soldiers and more than 500 career paths for civilians, the Army champions personal growth and professional development, empowering Soldiers and civilians to be all they can be.
For any additional information, please submit questions to our media query form at www.forms.osi.apps.mil/r/cKbc0z3XrA.
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