Actions

Friday is the U.S. Navy's 248th birthday

Petty Officer 1st Class Julie Ma/USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78)

Sailors assigned to USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) man the rails in honor of the 79th anniversary of the Battle of Midway as they depart Naval Station Norfolk , June 7, 2021. The battle of Midway, June 4-7, 1942, was an epic clash between the U.S. Navy and the imperial Japanese Navy, where the Navy's decisive victory effectively turned the tide of World War II in the Pacific. The ship is departing Norfolk in preparation for Full Ship Shock Trials. The US Navy conducts shock trials of new ship designs using live explosives to confirm that our warships can continue to meet demanding mission requirements under the harsh conditions they might encounter in battle. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Julie R. Matyascik)

By: CNN Newsource

Posted

and last updated

Every day is a good day to celebrate the nation's service members, but Friday is extra special.

October 13 marks the U.S. Navy's actual birthday. It was on that date in 1775 that the Continental Congress green-lighted the first U.S. naval force, making Friday the Navy's 248th birthday.

WATCH: Pilot remains part of Virginia Beach Navy squadron decades after being shot down

Meet News 3's Squadron of the Month: Strike Fighter Squadron 103

According to nationaldaycalendar.com, the Continental Navy had just two ships and a crew of 80 men at the time of its inception.