Navy Birthday is observed each year on October 13, commemorating the establishment of the United States Navy by the Continental Congress in 1775.

History of Navy Birthday

On October 13, 1775, the Continental Congress passed a resolution authorizing the purchase of two armed vessels to intercept British supply ships—this act is widely recognized as the birth of the Continental Navy. Over time, as the Navy evolved, this date came to be celebrated as its “birthday.”

In 1972, Chief of Naval Operations Admiral Elmo R. Zumwalt officially designated October 13 as the Navy’s birthday, to align celebrations with that original founding act. Since then, the Navy has held formal ceremonies, balls, and commemorations on this date to honor its history and those who have served.

Why is Navy Birthday important?

Navy Birthday is more than a ceremonial tradition: it offers a shared moment of reflection on naval heritage, sacrifice, and the continuing mission of maritime defense. It helps reinforce the identity and pride of naval personnel—past and present—and connects them to a lineage stretching back to the very founding of the nation’s sea power.

It also provides the public an opportunity to recognize and honor sailors, veterans, and maritime service. By bringing attention to naval service, the day highlights issues such as naval readiness, history, technology, and the role of sea forces in national security, diplomacy, and humanitarian missions.

How to Celebrate Navy Birthday

  • Attend or watch a Navy Birthday Ball or formal dinner, often hosted by the Navy League or naval organizations
  • Participate in a cake‑cutting ceremony, which is a traditional part of the celebration
  • Share stories, photos, or thank you messages to sailors, veterans, or family members with naval service
  • Learn or teach about naval history—visit a naval museum, read accounts of famous naval battles or innovations
  • Use social media to honor the occasion: post with tags like #HappyBirthdayNavy and #NavyBirthday
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2028October 13Friday
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October 13

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