PICATINNY ARSENAL, N.J. - On June 14, 2025, the U.S. Army will mark a significant milestone – the 250th anniversary of the establishment of our service.
Older than the nation it defends, the U.S. Army has made a significant contribution in the history and founding of America.
“Since 1775, American Soldiers have represented the very best of our nation,” said Secretary of the Army, Honorable Dan P. Driscoll. “They embody courage, sacrifice, and strength. Sworn to defend the Constitution and our core American values, American Soldiers have fought against any who might threaten our country. They are the most lethal land fighting force the world has ever seen. The U.S. Army has upheld this legacy for 250 years, and we will carry this legacy into the future.”
Army Birthday 250th - The Army Story Begins Part 1 - Video below
While Picatinny Arsenal as an installation was not established until the late 1800s, the land where the U.S. Army installation is situated did play a vital part in the Revolutionary War.
Records reflect that in 1749, Jonathan Osborn purchased land and built what was known as the Middle Forge. At the time of the Revolution, the forge was operated and owned by iron master John Jacob Faesch.
This forge is the first known one to have been built on what is now the site of the Picatinny Arsenal, and was critical to the war effort, producing iron cannon balls and incendiary grenades, iron bar and tools. Ceramic grenades were formed from the clay at Lake Picatinny and then sent to the furnace to be glazed and baked.
Today, Picatinny Arsenal is a U.S. Army installation designated as the “Joint Center of Excellence for Guns and Ammunition,” with a focusing on research, development, and engineering of weapons and ammunition systems for the U.S. military and its allies.
The central theme for this year’s 250th Army Birthday celebration is “This We’ll Defend,” which highlights the commitment of our Soldiers and civilians to defending our country, just as they always have.
“As we prepare for our future, we also reflect on our past,” said Gen. Randy George, Chief of Staff of the Army. “‘This we’ll defend’ was first used as a battle cry by the Continental Army. Today it reminds us that our Army’s purpose is clear: to fight and win the nation’s wars. We remain committed to honing our warfighting skills, enforcing standards and discipline, and living the values that have defined our Army culture for the past 250 years.”
Since its official inception, June 14, 1775 — more than a year before the Declaration of Independence — the U.S. Army has played a vital role in the growth and development of the American nation. Drawing on both long-standing militia traditions and recently introduced professional standards, it won the new republic's independence in an arduous eight-year struggle against Great Britain. At times, the Army provided the lone symbol of nationhood around which patriots rallied.
The Army has served as a steadfast guardian of the United States, safeguarding the American way of life through dedication, resilience, and strength. From the Revolutionary War to modern-day missions, Army Soldiers have exemplified the spirit of service, overcoming challenges and transforming obstacles into opportunities that have built and defended our nation.
The U.S. Army has offered endless possibilities and opportunities for service to our nation for two and a half centuries. With over 200 career choices for Soldiers and more than 500 career paths for civilians, Army possibilities are endless. The Army helps create a sense of purpose through personal growth and professional development – empowering Soldiers and civilian employees to be part of something greater than themselves and to be all they can be.
"For 250 years, Soldiers have proudly served our country and protected its people, with our oath to support and defend the Constitution as our guiding principle,” said Sgt. Maj. of the Army Michael R. Weimer. “We continue to stand ready to respond to the needs of the nation, and to fight and win when called upon. This we’ll defend!”
To learn more about the Army’s 250th birthday, visit:
Social Sharing