By LTC Mike Moad, U.S. Army Retired
On June 14, 2025, the United States Army turned 250 years old—a monumental milestone that marks not only a quarter-millennium of military service but the enduring legacy of the nation’s oldest branch of armed service. Formed even before the birth of the United States itself, the Army has stood as a protector of the American people, a defender of liberty, and a builder of peace.
On June 14, 1775, the Continental Congress authorized the formation of the Continental Army to defend the American colonies from British forces. Just one day later, George Washington was appointed its commander. At the time, the idea of a unified force was revolutionary in itself—thirteen colonies, divided by geography and philosophy, came together in shared purpose: to fight for freedom.
What began as a small and poorly equipped group of patriots grew into the foundation of the most powerful military force in history. The modern U.S. Army traces its roots directly to that pivotal moment—an army formed before there was even a country to defend.
The United States Army has been present at every major turning point in our nation’s history:
- Revolutionary War – Fighting for independence and laying the foundation of American democracy.
- Civil War – Preserving the Union and ending slavery.
- World Wars I & II – Defending liberty on a global scale.
- Cold War Era – Containing communism and ensuring strategic stability through deterrence.
- Post-9/11 Conflicts – Engaging in counterterrorism and protecting American interests abroad.
But the Army’s impact reaches beyond the battlefield. It has led in engineering, medicine, logistics, and innovation, transforming American infrastructure and advancing scientific breakthroughs.
The Army Corps of Engineers, for example, helped build everything from the Panama Canal to flood control systems in the Mississippi Delta. Army medical research revolutionized trauma care. And Army leadership has helped build democracy—not just defend it—through stabilization efforts across the globe.
At its heart, the Army isn’t tanks, helicopters, or satellites—it’s people. Soldiers from every background, race, region, and religion have stepped forward to serve. Some are first-generation Americans. Some come from long lines of military families. Many are driven by a sense of purpose greater than themselves.
Over the last 250 years, more than 30 million Americans have served in the U.S. Army. They’ve stood in the mud of Normandy, the jungles of Vietnam, the deserts of Iraq, and the mountains of Afghanistan—not to conquer, but to protect and defend the Constitution of the United States.
Texas has always shared a unique relationship with the Army. From the frontier forts of the 1800s to today’s sprawling installations like Fort Cavazos (formerly Fort Hood and now Fort Hood again), the Army has helped shape the identity and economy of the Lone Star State.
- Texas was a key site during the Indian Wars, with the Army maintaining peace and building communities in remote frontier regions.
- During World War II, Texas hosted dozens of training camps, helping prepare hundreds of thousands of soldiers.
- Today, Texas is home to over 100,000 active-duty soldiers, veterans, and civilian personnel, making it one of the most Army-connected states in the nation.
In an age of rapid change—cyber threats, global competition, and shifting political alliances—the U.S. Army remains a cornerstone of national security. But its purpose goes even deeper: it is the living embodiment of the American ideal that freedom must be defended, and that democracy requires sacrifice. The Army teaches leadership, instills discipline, and creates lifelong bonds. It reminds us that citizenship isn’t passive—it’s active. It’s earned. And it’s worth protecting.
As the Army celebrates its 250th birthday, Americans everywhere are encouraged to reflect, appreciate, and honor the men and women who have worn the uniform.
Say thank you.
Tell the stories.
Teach the next generation.
Fly the flag.
Live the values.
Because our republic has endured for two and a half centuries not just because of brilliant ideas and bold documents—but because of the brave men and women who have stood the line to defend them.
This We’ll Defend.
Happy 250th Birthday, U.S. Army.
Here’s to the next 250.
