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U.S. Military Rank Insignia

U.S. Military Rank Insignia

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The U.S. Military Rank Insignia has a long and proud history. Many of the ranks adopted by the United States military at the start of the Revolutionary War in 1775 are still in use today. The early military took a lot of inspiration from the British and French forces. Over time, the military rank insignia has come to represent American valor. These emblems, worn on the uniform to denote rank, help people identify military personnel’s rank and pay-grade at a glance. Evolution of U.S. Military Rank Insignia There are general rules for ranks that can help those unfamiliar with ranks to get a broad idea. The US Military rank insignia has humble beginnings. Initially, while the Continental Army had militia with a rank structure based on British tradition, they lacked uniforms or the money to buy them. At the time, General George Washington proposed “badges of distinction” to separate enlisted men's appearance from the commissioned officers. He recommended a color-coding system. This...

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249th Birthday of the United States Marine Corps

249th Birthday of the United States Marine Corps

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Happy 249th birthday, United States Marine Corps! From the earliest days of the Continental Marines to present-day missions, the Marine Corps continues to stand as a symbol of courage and resilience. Celebrations this year span the globe, highlighting the Corps’ storied past and ongoing commitment to readiness. The Birth of the U.S. Marine Corps On November 10, 1775, the United States Marine Corps was established by the Second Continental Congress, which authorized “two Battalions of Marines” to support and strengthen the U.S. Navy during the Revolutionary War. Captain Samuel Nicholas was appointed to lead recruitment efforts at Philadelphia’s Tun Tavern, a lively tavern and brewery on Water Street that became the iconic birthplace of the Marines. Though the original building is long gone, Tun Tavern holds a special place in Marine Corps history, and a commemorative marker still designates the site as the Marines’ official origin. Though the Marines served valiantly during the...

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The 249th Birthday of the U.S. Navy

The 249th Birthday of the U.S. Navy

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On October 13, 2024, we commemorate the 249th birthday of the United States Navy. Since its establishment on October 13, 1775, the Navy has played a critical role in safeguarding the United States. For nearly two and a half centuries, the Navy has stood ready to defend our interests and uphold international maritime freedom. The History of the U.S. Navy The U.S. Navy was established on October 13, 1775, during the American Revolution, when the Continental Congress authorized a small naval force to disrupt British supply lines and challenge their sea power. Comprised of a modest fleet of ships working alongside privateers, the early Navy engaged in tactical raids using converted frigates and schooners. These operations played a vital role in weakening British forces and protecting American interests at sea, proving the strategic value of naval warfare. After the Revolution, the Navy was disbanded due to financial constraints, but the rise of global trade and foreign threats led...

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The 77th Birthday of the United States Air Force

The 77th Birthday of the United States Air Force

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On September 18, 2024, we honor the 77th birthday of the United States Air Force, a branch that has consistently demonstrated unmatched air superiority, global reach, and technological advancement since its inception. Over the past seven decades, the Air Force has evolved from a modest unit into a world-renowned force, capable of projecting power anytime and anywhere to safeguard American interests. The Formation of the United States Air Force The U.S. Air Force, as we know it today, was officially established on September 18, 1947, with the signing of the National Security Act by President Harry Truman. Prior to this historic moment, the Air Force operated as part of the U.S. Army under the name Aeronautical Division, responsible for the fledgling nation's air capabilities. The recognition of the strategic importance of airpower during World War II propelled the Air Force to become an independent service branch, marking the dawn of a new era in military history. In its early years,...

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Celebrating Independence Day 2024

Celebrating Independence Day 2024

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On July 4, 1776, the thirteen American colonies proclaimed their independence from England, setting the stage for the birth of a new nation. This pivotal historical event led to the establishment of the United States of America, a country built on the principles of freedom, equality, and democracy. Each year, Americans come together on the fourth of July, known as Independence Day, to celebrate this momentous occasion. Independence Day will be officially observed on Thursday, July 4, 2024, our nation’s 248th birthday. The Declaration of Independence The journey toward independence began well before 1776. By the time the Continental Congress convened in Philadelphia during the summer of that year, tensions between the colonies and England had been escalating for over a year. On June 7, 1776, Richard Henry Lee of Virginia introduced a resolution in the Pennsylvania State House, declaring that "these United Colonies are, and of right ought to be, free and independent States." This...

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National PTSD Awareness Day

National PTSD Awareness Day

If thoughts and feelings from a life-threatening event are upsetting you or causing problems in your life, you may have PTSD. According to the National Center for PTSD, post-traumatic stress disorder is a mental health condition that can occur after somebody has experienced a traumatic event. Going through a traumatic experience can actually affect areas of the brain, especially depending on when the trauma happened during development.  PTSD can occur in all people, of any ethnicity, nationality, or culture, and at any age. PTSD affects approximately 3.5 percent of U.S. adults every year, and an estimated one in 11 people will be diagnosed with PTSD in their lifetime. Women are twice as likely as men to have PTSD. The rate of PTSD is much higher among Veterans, with the VA estimating that up to 20% of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom Veterans, 10% of Gulf War Veterans, and 30% of Vietnam War Veterans have experienced PTSD.  PTSD has been known by many names...

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249th Birthday of the U.S. Army

249th Birthday of the U.S. Army

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June 14, 2024, marks a significant milestone as we celebrate the birthday of the United States Army. This day is an opportunity to reflect on the rich history, bravery, and enduring spirit of one of the most storied military forces in the world. The U.S. Army has played a crucial role in shaping the nation's history, defending its freedoms, and promoting peace globally. Historical Beginnings of the U.S. Army The United States Army was officially established on June 14, 1775, by the Continental Congress. This decision came amidst the burgeoning conflict between the American colonies and Great Britain, known as the American Revolutionary War. The need for a unified military force was clear as the colonies sought independence from British rule. General George Washington was appointed the first Commander-in-Chief, laying the foundation for a powerful and respected military institution. In its early days, the Army faced numerous challenges, including limited resources, and inexperienced...

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Honoring Sacrifice: Remembering Memorial Day with Together We Served

Honoring Sacrifice: Remembering Memorial Day with Together We Served

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Memorial Day is a deeply significant and cherished national holiday in the United States, providing an opportunity for Americans to reflect on and pay tribute to the courageous men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving in the armed forces. As we observe this solemn occasion, TogetherWeServed, the largest online community of military veterans and their families, is dedicated to sharing the rich history of Memorial Day, highlighting its distinctions from Veterans Day, and providing guidance on how to observe this day of remembrance with reverence and gratitude. The Origins and History of Memorial Day Memorial Day, originally known as Decoration Day, has a profound historical background that dates back to the aftermath of the American Civil War. The practice of honoring fallen soldiers by decorating their graves with flowers and flags gained momentum across the nation, with various communities independently commemorating their fallen heroes. The official birthplace of...

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The New United States Space Force

The New United States Space Force

The Purpose of Establishment of the United States Space Force The Space Force was signed into law on Dec. 20, 2019, as part of the 2020 National Defense Authorization Act. SpaceForce.mil went live shortly thereafter. On June 18, 2018, President Donald Trump directed the Pentagon to begin planning for a United States Space Force: a 6th independent military service branch to undertake missions and operations in the rapidly evolving space domain. The Beginning of a New Military Service The U.S. Space Force (USSF) would be the first new military service in more than 70 years, following the U.S. Air Force's establishment in 1947. Vice President Mike Pence and the Department of Defense released more details about the planned force on Aug. 9, 2018, citing plans to create a separate military command, U.S. Space Command, in addition to an independent service overseen by a civilian secretary, all by 2020. Does the United States Need the United States Space Force? The Department of Defense...

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Gary Sinise Foundation

Gary Sinise Foundation

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The Gary Sinise Foundation and Veterans What is the relationship between the Gary Sinise Foundation and veterans? There are many non-profit organizations and charities that endeavor to support veterans, particularly those wounded in the line of duty. The Gary Sinise Foundation’s mission statement is, “We serve our nation by honoring our defenders, veterans, first responders, their families, and those in need...by creating and supporting unique programs designed to entertain, educate, inspire, strengthen, and build communities.” Together We Served takes a closer work at the efforts the Foundation is making to support the veteran community. Who is Gary Sinise? Born in 1955, Gary Sinise is an American actor. He got his start in theater and small television roles. He first attracted substantial attention for directing, producing, and starring in the 1992 film Of Mice And Men, adapting the classic John Steinbeck novella. Shortly after, he made a huge impression as the double amputee...

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Explaining Air Force Basic Military Training (BMT)

Explaining Air Force Basic Military Training (BMT)

Joining the United States Air Force requires comprehensive training to become a proficient Airman. Air Force basic training is considered by some to be the ‘easiest’ of the branches. While it is shorter than the Marine Corps’ and Army’s basic training programs, it is still an exceptional test of a young recruit’s physical and psychological fortitude. Not everyone can become an Airman. Reports have found that over seven in ten young people are incapable of even becoming a recruit. The Air Force takes its pick of the applicants among the three in ten who are eligible, putting them through 8.5 weeks of training, which, for most of them, is unlike anything they have gone through before. Together We Served is a veteran locator tool that helps American military veterans reconnect with others they met during their military career, whether they shared a duty station, squadron, or basic training. We are providing a rundown of modern Air Force training for veterans to compare to their own...

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