In 2025, as America marks its 250th birthday, three of its oldest military branches – the Army, Navy, and Marine Corps – will celebrate the same milestone. These institutions have shaped American history. They stand as symbols of national defense, resilience, and service.
Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP) is proud to stand beside those who stand to serve. No matter the uniform, WWP will honor and empower wounded veterans, their families, and caregivers well into the future.
Here’s a closer look at the military branches turning 250 in 2025.
Staff Sgt. Courtney Hall sets up a display highlighting the Army’s 250th anniversary during Armed Forces Day weekend at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
Birthdate: June 14, 1775
The U.S. Army predates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence by more than a year. Born as a result of the Revolutionary War, what was then the Continental Army became America’s first national institution. The Army appointed George Washington as its first commander-in-chief, a role that would elevate his reputation and lead to his eventual presidency.
On July 4, 1776, after the introduction of the Declaration of Independence, the Continental Army, along with the militia in service of Congress, combined to become the Army of the United States. Currently, the Army is the largest branch of the U.S. military and has fought in every major conflict in U.S. history.
Navy Vice Adm. Brendan McLane addresses guests during a 250th birthday celebration of the U.S. Navy.
Birthdate: Oct. 13, 1775
Four months after the Army formed, Congress authorized the creation of the Continental Navy. Initially created to disrupt British supply lines, the Navy’s early fleet consisted of converted merchant vessels. Despite its humble beginnings, the Navy proved instrumental in challenging British naval supremacy.
Following the Revolutionary War, Congress disbanded the Continental Navy but re-established it in 1794 to combat piracy and protect American interests abroad. Since then, the U.S. Navy has become the world’s most powerful maritime force, protecting the seas for the United States, our allies, and strategic partners.
U.S. Marines with the Silent Drill Platoon execute a drill sequence during a Blue Angels’ flyover event. Throughout 2025, the Marine Corps will celebrate its 250th birthday.
Birthdate: Nov. 10, 1775
Capt. Samuel Nicholas created “The Few and the Proud” in Philadelphia after establishing the first Marine Corps recruiting headquarters. He was looking for “a few good men” to support the Navy’s maritime efforts.
Tasked with providing shipboard security, amphibious assault capabilities, and expeditionary warfare, the Marines quickly distinguished itself for its versatility.
The Marine Corps’ first major action came in 1776, when they captured Fort Nassau in the Bahamas, seizing valuable British gunpowder and munitions. Since then, Marines have participated in every major U.S. conflict, often serving on the front lines.
Leaders expect soldiers to adhere to these values on and off duty.
The Navy’s core values are honor, courage, and commitment. Every member of the Navy is expected to adhere to these values regardless of their role.
The Marine Corps core values match the Navy’s: honor, courage, and commitment. The Marines also lean on its mottos like Semper Fidelis, which means “always faithful” in Latin.
Wind blows the flags of a Military District of Washington Joint Armed Forces Color Guard as the service members carrying them prepare to march to the infield stage ahead of the Daytona 500 on Feb. 16, 2025. (U.S. Air Force photo by Mr. Nicholas A. Priest)
The Army flag is a replica of the original War Office seal, which is now the seal of the Department of the Army. The flag is white with a yellow fringe. At its center is a blue Roman cuirass, symbolizing strength and defense. Below it, “United States Army” is inscribed in white letters on a scarlet scroll, with the founding year 1775 in blue numerals beneath it. The Army adorns the flag with 190 colorful streamers representing campaigns fought by the Army throughout the country’s history.
President Dwight Eisenhower authorized the current flag for the Navy in 1959, replacing an unofficial infantry flag. The current flag has a dark blue background and yellow fringe. In the center is the seal of the Department of the Navy. Under the seal, a yellow scroll reads “United States Navy” in dark blue letters. In recognition of their combat history, the flag bears 46 streamers with 31 silver stars and 53 bronze stars, commemorating the Navy’s major actions and battles.
The Marine Corps flag has a scarlet background with the Marine Corps emblem in the center in gray and gold. Under the emblem, a gold-lined banner reads “United States Marine Corps.” The 54 colored streamers hanging from the flag honor the Marine Corps history and accomplishments.
The Army primarily divides its ranks between enlisted soldiers and officers. Enlisted ranks begin at E-1, or private, and include junior enlisted personnel (E-1 through E-4) and non-commissioned officers or NCOs (E-5 through E-9). The highest enlisted rank is command sergeant major or sergeant major of the Army.
Between enlisted soldiers and commissioned officers are warrant officers, who hold ranks from W-1 to W-5.
Officers start at second lieutenant (O-1) and can rise to general (O-10). A five-star general is the highest rank in the Army; however, only five people have achieved that. The last was Omar N. Bradley in 1950.
The Navy divides its ranks between enlisted sailors, warrant officers, and commissioned officers. Enlisted ranks begin at seaman recruit (E-1) and progress through seaman (E-3), followed by petty officers (E-4 to E-6) and chief petty officers (E-7 to E-9). Like the Army, Navy warrant officers (W-2 to W-5) serve in a specialized tier between enlisted ranks and commissioned officers. Commissioned officers start as an ensign (O-1) and can advance to fleet admiral (O-11), the Navy’s highest possible rank.
Despite its close connection to the Navy, the Marines’ rank structure is more similar to the Army’s. Enlisted ranks begin at private (E-1). The highest enlisted rank is sergeant major/sergeant major of the Marine Corps(E-9). Warrant officers fall between enlisted and commissioned officer ranks and range from W-1 through W-5. Like the Army, commissioned officers start as second lieutenants (O-1). The highest rank in the Marine Corps is four-star general (O-10).
Each branch of the military has had its share of famous names, from actors and musicians to athletes and public figures. Here’s a look at some well-known stars who served under the flag before stepping into the spotlight.
To join the military, you must meet specific requirements, including being a legal U.S. resident and passing a background check. While some criteria have changed over the years, meeting the military’s physical and mental standards remains important.
Soldiers assigned to the U.S. Army’s Program Executive Office Simulation, Training and Instrumentation participate in a final Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) on May 20 prior to the implementation of the new Army Fitness Test (AFT) on June 1, 2025. (U.S. Army photo by Ariana Aubuchon)
While the Army has more personnel than the other branches, there are minimum requirements for becoming a soldier. Age limits: Between 17-35 years old.
Physical fitness: Recruits must pass the Army Fitness Test (AFT) not only during training but throughout each year of enlistment. The AFT consists of:
To “pass” the AFT, a soldier must score a minimum of 60 points for each event for a total score of 360. The physical requirements can change or differ depending on a person’s age.
ASVAB score: Most branches of the military require recruits to take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test, which measures a candidate’s skills in math, science, reading, and mechanics. The Army requires a minimum score of 31, although they provide a 90-day academic track for those who score between 21-30 to help them prepare and get another chance. The higher the ASVAB score, the more job options you may qualify for.
Petty Officer 3rd Class Essence Addison and Petty Officer 2nd Class Alec James McNeil perform a plank exercise during the annual physical readiness test. (U.S. Navy photo by mass communication specialist 2nd Class Maci Sternod)
For those interested in sailing the seas (or other Navy occupations), you must also meet specific qualifications. The physical requirements may change or differ depending on a person’s age.
Age limits: Must be between 17-41 (officer programs may have different age limits).
Physical fitness: The Navy uses the Navy Physical Readiness Test (PRT) to assess a potential recruit’s physical abilities. To pass the test, recruits must score at least 60 points. The test consists of:
ASVAB score: Applicants need to meet a minimum score on the ASVAB, but that score may be determined by the specific job. Some jobs require a higher minimum score than others.
U.S. Marines with 4th Reconnaissance Battalion, 4th Marine Division, count pullups during an Initial Strength Test on May 3, 2025, in Fort Sam Houston, San Antonio, Texas. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Jacqueline Peguero-Montes)
If you want to be one of the few and the proud, you must meet certain qualifications.
Age limits: Must be between ages 17-28.
Physical fitness: Marine recruits must pass an initial strength test (IST), which consists of:
ASVAB score: Those wanting to join the Marines must score at least 31 on the ASVAB (non-traditional degrees or those with GEDs must score 50 or higher).
The U.S. military branches each have a unique mission, history, and culture and play a vital role in our national security. Here are some surprising facts you might not know about the Army, Navy, and Marines.
Despite being the first official branch of the U.S. military, the Army was the last branch to have an official song. “The Army Goes Rolling Along” didn’t officially become the Army’s song until Veterans Day of 1956. The song, originally written by Army officer Edmund L. Gruber in 1908, went through several changes before it became the official song in 1952. The current lyrics tell the story of the Army’s past, present, and future.
The Navy runs a Marine Mammal Program, which trains bottlenose dolphins and California sea lions to “detect, locate, mark, and recover objects” in harbors, coastal areas, and the open sea. The Navy experimented with training other marine mammals like sharks, rays, and sea turtles, to detect threats in the waterways, but dolphins and sea lions proved to be the most trainable and adaptable.
The commandant of the United States Marine Corps can grant the title of honorary Marine to civilians who make great contributions to the Corps. As of 2024, only 109 “people” have had that honor bestowed on them. Perhaps the most surprising honorary Marine of that select group is Master Sgt. Bugs Bunny.
People choose to join a particular branch of the military for a variety of personal and professional reasons. Some are drawn to the traditions and values of a specific branch, while others are motivated by the unique career opportunities, specialized training, or a family affiliation with the branch. Here’s a look at why some WWP warriors chose the branch they did.
For 250 years, the U.S. Army, Navy, and Marine Corps have stood as pillars of American strength. Each has played a vital role in defending our nation’s freedoms.
These milestone birthdays are a time for Americans to reflect on past triumphs and recognize the men and women who continue to serve with distinction.
Happy Birthday Army, Navy, and Marines!
Find out how Wounded Warrior Projects honors and empowers those who serve.
The appearance of U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) visual information does not imply or constitute DoD endorsement.
Contact: — Paris Moulden, Public Relations, pmoulden@woundedwarriorproject.org, 904.570.7910
About Wounded Warrior Project
Since 2003, Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP) has been meeting the growing needs of warriors, their families, and caregivers — helping them achieve their highest ambition. Learn more about Wounded Warrior Project.
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Breaking Down the Branches: Celebrating 250 Years of the Army, Navy, and Marines – Wounded Warrior Project
