Honoring Oceanside Service Members On National Armed Forces Day

OCEANSIDE, CA — Thank you to all those that have served their country on National Armed Forces Day.

They have frozen in foxholes. They have made some of the deepest friendships. They have grieved departed friends. They have given us our own nation.

Harry S. Truman is given credit for the first idea of a day to celebrate those that protect us, will purposefully get in the line of fire to save a stranger and keep the seas safe for travel and commerce. In 1949 all branches of the United States military became unified under the Department of Defense. Creating Armed Forces Day was established as a holiday celebration for all Service Members.

HISTORY OF NATIONAL ARMED FORCES DAY

For almost 2 and ½ centuries the United States has had a standing defense force ready to protect, not just us, but our friends and neighbors also. In 1775 the colonial Continental Congress established a Continental Army, Navy and Marine Corps. And a bunch of farmers, blacksmiths, shop owners said NO to the King. Those same guys then showed that King what a New World fighting force looked like and left us a country to run. American Forces have fought in most major wars since then.

They were involved in the Indian Wars of the 1790s, the War of 1812, the American Civil War in 1861, the Spanish-American War of 1898, World Wars I and II in 1917 and 1941 respectively, the Korean War in 1950, and the Vietnam War in 1965. The U.S. military also took part in the Gulf War in 1991 and are still in the war in Afghanistan. These are ordinary people, that do extraordinary things. There are a million stories to be told about how Frankie saved the unit. About what a goof that new guy was. These people deserve our respect and admiration every day. But, on the 3rd Monday of May, we take the time and effort to thank them for all they do for you personally.

Living close to Camp Pendleton, we have the privilege and honor to see many service members around town as they train. Today consider showing your thanks and buy them lunch. Don’t say anything, just tell the wait staff to add their bill to yours and leave quietly. Start an easy, quick conversation just to let them know you see them and what they do is important. Ask “Where are you from?” “What do you miss most?” “What do you like here the best?” Little things can mean a lot for those far from home.

ARMED FORCES DAY TRADITIONS

Some people celebrate with the veterans of family and friends. Some have “Dress Up Day”. You know, come as your favorite Military hero and swap tales of their accomplishments and their defeats. You can also do an Armed Forces, all day, TV binge-watch. There is certainly no shortage of John Wayne, Audie Murphy, Band of Brothers films.

However, you decide to commemorate Armed Forces Day in Oceanside make sure to take a moment and appreciate the sacrifice of those that serve.

For more info on Armed Forces Day visit:

https://nationaltoday.com/armed-forces-day/
https://www.history.com/tag/u-s-armed-forces

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