United States Navy
October 13, 1775
The United States Navy traces its origins to the Continental Navy, which the Continental Congress established on 13 October 1775. Since 1972 each CNO has encouraged a Navy-wide celebration of this occasion “to enhance a greater appreciation of our Navy heritage, and to provide a positive influence toward pride and professionalism in the naval service.”
United States Marine
Corps November 10, 1775
The Marine Corps was founded to serve as an infantry unit aboard naval vessels and was responsible for the security of the ship and its crew by conducting offensive and defensive combat during boarding actions and landing parties as well as defending the ship’s officers from mutiny.