Governor Haslam Proclaims May 17 Armed Forces Day

NASHVILLE – Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam and state Department of Veterans Affairs Commissioner Many-Bears Grinder today announced May 17, 2014 is Armed Forces Day.  The single day celebration was created to signify the unification of the Armed Forces under one federal department; the Department of Defense.

President Harry S. Truman led the effort to establish a single holiday for Americans to come together and thank our troops for their patriotic service in support of our country.  On August 31, 1949, Secretary of Defense Louis Johnson announced the creation of Armed Forces Day to replace separate days to honor the Army, Marine Corps, Navy and Air Force. 

The first Armed Forces Day was celebrated on May 20, 1950.  The tradition continues on the third Saturday of May each year, as the country pauses to recognize all active duty men and women serving in every branch of the United States military.

“We should take every opportunity we have to recognize our men and women in uniform and thank them for their courageous service to our country,” Grinder said.  “Their service today ensures we have freedom tomorrow and we are indebted to their commitment to protect that mission.”

Commissioner Grinder will present the Governor’s Armed Forces Day Proclamation during the Armed Forces Day Picnic at Veterans Memorial Park in Hohenwald on Saturday, May 17.

For more information about the Tennessee Department of Veterans Affairs visit the department website, facebook and twitter feeds. 

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