History and Traditions

Introduction

Welcome to the military! This guide provides a comprehensive overview of key events, battles, dates, and heroes in U.S. military history. Designed as a reference for cadets, midshipmen, officer candidates, and enlistees, it will help you understand the legacy and traditions of the armed forces you are about to join.

 

Ancient Military Traditions

Sparta and Athens

  • Sparta: Known for their disciplined and formidable warriors. Spartan society was heavily focused on military training and excellence, with boys starting their training at age seven. Spartans valued strength, discipline, and loyalty to the state.
  • Athens: Celebrated for their citizen-soldiers and naval prowess. Athenian military service was a duty for all male citizens, contributing to the defense and expansion of their city-state. The Athenians placed a strong emphasis on naval power and democracy.

Roman Legions

  • Organization and Discipline: Influential in shaping modern military structures. Roman legions were highly organized units, known for their discipline and innovative tactics. Roman soldiers were professional and received regular training.
  • Key Tactics: Use of the Testudo (tortoise) formation, where soldiers would align their shields to form a protective barrier, showcasing their skill and coordination in battle. The Romans also excelled in siege warfare and engineering.

 

The Birth of the American Military

Colonial Militias

  • Early Militias: Defended settlements, forming the basis of the National Guard. These militias were composed of local men who were called upon to protect their communities from Native American attacks and foreign invaders.
  • French and Indian War (1754-1763): Militia experience shaped future military strategies. Colonial militias gained valuable combat experience during this conflict, which would later influence the Continental Army's tactics. The war highlighted the need for better coordination and training.

The Revolutionary War (1775-1783)

  • Formation of the Continental Army: Led by General George Washington, this army was established to fight for American independence from British rule. The Continental Army faced numerous challenges, including shortages of supplies and training.
  • Key Battles:
    • Battle of Bunker Hill (June 17, 1775): Demonstrated American determination despite a technical British victory. The heavy British casualties proved that the colonists could stand up to the British regulars.
    • Battle of Trenton (December 26, 1776): Washington's crossing of the Delaware River and surprise attack on Hessian forces was a pivotal morale boost for the Continental Army.
    • Battle of Saratoga (October 7, 1777): A turning point securing French support. This American victory convinced France to ally with the colonies, providing crucial military aid and changing the course of the war.
    • Siege of Yorktown (October 19, 1781): Decisive victory leading to British surrender. This battle effectively ended the Revolutionary War with General Cornwallis's surrender.
  • Heroes:
    • George Washington: Commander of the Continental Army and the first President of the United States. His leadership and strategy were pivotal to the American victory.
    • Nathanael Greene: A key strategist in the Southern campaign who used guerrilla tactics to weaken British forces.
    • Marquis de Lafayette: A French aristocrat and military officer who provided significant support and leadership to the American cause.
    • John Paul Jones: A naval commander who achieved fame with his victory in the Battle of Flamborough Head against the British.

 

The Formation of the U.S. Military Branches

The Formation of the U.S. Army

  • Date Formed: June 14, 1775
  • Birthday: June 14th
  • How Formed: The Continental Congress established the Continental Army to coordinate the military efforts of the Thirteen Colonies in their revolt against British rule. General George Washington was appointed as its commanding general.
  • Key Figures:
    • General George Washington: Appointed as the Commander-in-Chief of the Continental Army, he led American forces to victory in the Revolutionary War.

The Formation of the U.S. Navy

  • Date Formed: October 13, 1775
  • Birthday: October 13th
  • How Formed: The Continental Congress established the Continental Navy to disrupt British supply lines and support the war effort against Britain. The first naval committee was formed to oversee its operations.
  • Key Figures:
    • John Paul Jones: Known as the "Father of the American Navy," he achieved several important victories and boosted American morale.

The Formation of the U.S. Marine Corps

  • Date Formed: November 10, 1775
  • Birthday: November 10th
  • How Formed: Established by a resolution of the Continental Congress to serve as an infantry unit aboard naval vessels, the Marines were tasked with providing security and engaging in ship-to-ship combat.
  • Key Figures:
    • Samuel Nicholas: Considered the first Commandant of the Marine Corps, he led the Marines during the early years of the Revolutionary War.

The Formation of the U.S. Coast Guard

  • Date Formed: August 4, 1790
  • Birthday: August 4th
  • How Formed: Established by the Revenue Act, which authorized the construction of ten vessels to enforce tariff and trade laws and prevent smuggling. Originally known as the Revenue Marine, it was later renamed the Coast Guard.
  • Key Figures:
    • Alexander Hamilton: The first Secretary of the Treasury, who was instrumental in the creation of the Revenue Marine.

The Formation of the U.S. Air Force

  • Date Formed: September 18, 1947
  • Birthday: September 18th
  • How Formed: Established as a separate branch of the U.S. military with the passage of the National Security Act of 1947. Prior to this, the Air Force was part of the U.S. Army as the Army Air Forces.
  • Key Figures:
    • General Henry H. "Hap" Arnold: The only five-star general in the Air Force, he played a crucial role in its development during World War II.
    • General Carl Spaatz: The first Chief of Staff of the newly formed U.S. Air Force.

The Formation of the U.S. Space Force

  • Date Formed: December 20, 2019
  • Birthday: December 20th
  • How Formed: Established as a separate branch of the U.S. military with the signing of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2020 by President Donald Trump. The Space Force was created to organize, train, and equip space forces to protect U.S. and allied interests in space.
  • Key Figures:
    • General John W. Raymond: The first Chief of Space Operations, tasked with leading the newly established U.S. Space Force.

 

 

The Evolution of the U.S. Military

The War of 1812 (1812-1815)

  • Naval Battles:
    • Battle of Lake Erie (September 10, 1813): Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry's victory secured control of the Great Lakes, a strategic advantage for the United States.
    • Battle of New Orleans (January 8, 1815): General Andrew Jackson's decisive victory against the British, which boosted American morale and patriotism.
  • Defending the Capital: The resilience shown during the British attack on Washington, D.C., where the British burned the White House, highlighted the need for a robust national defense.
  • Heroes:
    • Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry: Famous for his declaration, "We have met the enemy and they are ours," after the Battle of Lake Erie.
    • General Andrew Jackson: His leadership during the Battle of New Orleans made him a national hero and later helped him become the seventh President of the United States.
    • Dolly Madison: First Lady who saved important documents and artifacts, including a portrait of George Washington, during the British attack on the White House.

The Mexican-American War (1846-1848)

  • Key Battles:
    • Battle of Palo Alto (May 8, 1846): The first major battle of the war, showcasing the effectiveness of American artillery.
    • Battle of Buena Vista (February 22-23, 1847): A significant American victory where General Zachary Taylor's forces repelled a larger Mexican army.
    • Battle of Chapultepec (September 13, 1847): The capture of Chapultepec Castle opened the way for the U.S. to take Mexico City.
  • Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo: Ended the war and significantly expanded U.S. territory, including present-day California, Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas.
  • Heroes:
    • General Zachary Taylor: His successes in battles such as Buena Vista earned him the nickname "Old Rough and Ready" and later the presidency.
    • General Winfield Scott: Known as "Old Fuss and Feathers," he led the successful campaign to capture Mexico City.
    • Captain John C. Frémont: Played a key role in California's conquest and later became a prominent political figure.

The Civil War (1861-1865)

  • Union and Confederate Armies: The war's strategies and technologies influenced future military practices, including the use of railroads and telegraphs for logistics and communication.
  • Key Battles:
    • First Battle of Bull Run (July 21, 1861): The first major battle of the Civil War, showing that the conflict would be longer and more brutal than anticipated.
    • Battle of Shiloh (April 6-7, 1862): A bloody battle in Tennessee that demonstrated the war's high casualty rates.
    • Battle of Antietam (September 17, 1862): The bloodiest single day in American military history, leading to President Lincoln issuing the Emancipation Proclamation.
    • Battle of Gettysburg (July 1-3, 1863): The turning point of the Civil War, ending General Lee's invasion of the North.
    • Siege of Vicksburg (May 18 – July 4, 1863): Gave the Union control of the Mississippi River, splitting the Confederacy.
    • Battle of Appomattox Court House (April 9, 1865): The final engagement leading to General Lee's surrender to General Grant, effectively ending the Civil War.
  • Heroes:
    • Ulysses S. Grant: Commanding General of the U.S. Army who later became the 18th President of the United States, known for his decisive and aggressive tactics.
    • Robert E. Lee: Commanding General of the Confederate Army, respected for his tactical brilliance despite the Confederacy's defeat.
    • Harriet Tubman: Not only an Underground Railroad conductor but also a Union spy and nurse, contributing significantly to the war effort.
    • Clara Barton: Founder of the American Red Cross, known for her tireless work as a nurse on the battlefield.

Spanish-American War (1898)

  • Key Battles:
    • Battle of Manila Bay (May 1, 1898): A decisive naval victory led by Commodore George Dewey, which destroyed the Spanish fleet in the Philippines.
    • Battle of San Juan Hill (July 1, 1898): A key land battle that made Theodore Roosevelt and the Rough Riders famous.
  • Heroes:
    • Admiral George Dewey: Celebrated for his victory at Manila Bay, which marked the emergence of the U.S. as a global naval power.
    • Theodore Roosevelt: Led the Rough Riders in a courageous charge up San Juan Hill, which helped him build a political career that led to the presidency.
    • Admiral William T. Sampson: Commanded the North Atlantic Squadron and played a key role in the naval blockade of Cuba.

 

World War I and II

World War I (1914-1918)

  • Trench Warfare: Introduction to modern warfare tactics, characterized by static trench lines and massive artillery bombardments.
  • Key Battles:
    • Battle of Cantigny (May 28, 1918): The first major American offensive of the war, which boosted Allied morale.
    • Second Battle of the Marne (July 15 – August 6, 1918): A significant Allied victory that marked the beginning of the end for Germany.
    • Meuse-Argonne Offensive (September 26 – November 11, 1918): The largest operation and victory for the American Expeditionary Forces, which helped bring an end to the war.
  • Heroes:
    • General John J. Pershing: Commander of the American Expeditionary Forces, who insisted on maintaining an independent American army.
    • Sgt. Alvin York: Awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions during the Meuse-Argonne Offensive, where he captured 132 German soldiers.
    • Henry Johnson: Member of the Harlem Hellfighters, who displayed extraordinary bravery in combat, later posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor.
    • Eddie Rickenbacker: America's top flying ace of World War I, credited with 26 aerial victories.

World War II (1939-1945)

  • Global Conflict: The U.S. military's involvement showcased the importance of combined arms operations, amphibious assaults, and strategic bombing.
  • Key Battles:
    • Battle of Pearl Harbor (December 7, 1941): A surprise Japanese attack that led to the U.S. entering World War II.
    • Doolittle Raid (April 18, 1942): A daring air raid on Tokyo that boosted American morale.
    • Battle of Midway (June 4-7, 1942): A pivotal naval battle in the Pacific Theater that shifted the balance of power in favor of the Allies.
    • Battle of Guadalcanal (August 7, 1942 – February 9, 1943): Marked the first major offensive by Allied forces against the Japanese Empire.
    • D-Day (June 6, 1944): The largest amphibious invasion in history, leading to the liberation of Western Europe from Nazi control.
    • Battle of the Bulge (December 16, 1944 – January 25, 1945): The last major German offensive on the Western Front, which ultimately failed.
    • Battle of Iwo Jima (February 19 – March 26, 1945): A crucial battle in the Pacific Theater, symbolized by the iconic flag-raising on Mount Suribachi.
  • Heroes:
    • General Dwight D. Eisenhower: Supreme Commander of the Allied Expeditionary Forces in Europe, later became the 34th President of the United States.
    • General Douglas MacArthur: Commanded Allied forces in the Pacific Theater and accepted Japan's surrender.
    • Audie Murphy: One of the most decorated American combat soldiers, known for his heroism in multiple battles.
    • Tuskegee Airmen: The first African American military aviators, who distinguished themselves in combat and broke racial barriers.
    • General George S. Patton: Known for his aggressive tactics and leadership in the European Theater.
    • Lt. Gen. James H. Doolittle: Led the Doolittle Raid on Tokyo and was a key figure in the development of strategic bombing.
    • Captain Richard Winters: Known for his leadership of Easy Company, 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division.
    • Rear Admiral Raymond Spruance: Played a key role in the Battle of Midway, demonstrating strategic brilliance.

 

The Cold War and Beyond

The Korean War (1950-1953)

  • Cold War Context: The first major conflict of the Cold War, emphasizing the importance of containing communism.
  • Key Battles:
    • Battle of Inchon (September 15, 1950): A successful amphibious assault led by General Douglas MacArthur, which turned the tide in favor of UN forces.
    • Battle of Pusan Perimeter (August 4 – September 18, 1950): A defensive stand that prevented North Korean forces from capturing the last major South Korean port.
    • Battle of Chosin Reservoir (November 27 – December 13, 1950): A brutal battle in freezing conditions, showcasing the determination and resilience of U.S. and UN forces.
  • Heroes:
    • General Douglas MacArthur: His leadership in the Inchon landing was pivotal, although he was later relieved of command for insubordination.
    • Col. Lewis "Chesty" Puller: Renowned Marine Corps officer known for his leadership and bravery, a legend within the Marine Corps.
    • Pfc. Ralph E. Pomeroy: Awarded the Medal of Honor for his heroic actions in defending a hill during the Korean War.
    • Sgt. Richard G. Wilson: Posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions as a medic in Korea.
    • General Matthew B. Ridgway: Took command after MacArthur and stabilized the UN forces in Korea.

The Vietnam War (1955-1975)

  • Guerrilla Warfare: The Vietnam War introduced U.S. forces to the complexities of guerrilla warfare and counterinsurgency operations.
  • Key Battles:
    • Battle of Ia Drang (November 14-18, 1965): The first major battle between the U.S. Army and North Vietnamese forces, highlighting the challenges of Vietnam.
    • Tet Offensive (January 30 – September 23, 1968): A series of surprise attacks by the Viet Cong and North Vietnamese forces that shifted public opinion on the war.
    • Battle of Hue (January 31 – March 2, 1968): One of the bloodiest and longest battles of the Vietnam War.
  • Heroes:
    • General William Westmoreland: Commander of U.S. forces during the Vietnam War, faced criticism for the war's progression.
    • Lt. Col. Hal Moore: Known for his leadership at the Battle of Ia Drang, co-authored "We Were Soldiers Once... And Young."
    • Sgt. Roy Benavidez: Awarded the Medal of Honor for his bravery in rescuing wounded soldiers during a fierce battle.
    • Admiral Elmo Zumwalt: Implemented significant reforms in the Navy and played a key role in the Vietnam War.
    • Major General James F. Hollingsworth: Known for his leadership and bravery during multiple tours in Vietnam.

The Gulf War (1990-1991)

  • Operation Desert Storm (January 17 – February 28, 1991): Demonstrated the effectiveness of modern military tactics, including air superiority and rapid ground assaults.
  • Key Battles:
    • Battle of 73 Easting (February 26, 1991): One of the largest tank battles in U.S. military history, showcasing American technological and tactical superiority.
    • Highway of Death (February 26-27, 1991): The destruction of retreating Iraqi forces, highlighting the overwhelming power of Coalition forces.
  • Heroes:
    • General Norman Schwarzkopf: Commander of Coalition Forces during the Gulf War, known for his strategic brilliance and charismatic leadership.
    • General Colin Powell: Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff during the Gulf War, later served as Secretary of State.
    • Lt. Gen. Thomas Kelly: Played a key role in planning and executing Operation Desert Storm.
    • Major General William G. Pagonis: Managed logistics for the Gulf War, ensuring the rapid deployment and supply of U.S. forces.

The War in Afghanistan (2001-2021)

  • Operation Enduring Freedom (October 7, 2001 – December 28, 2014): Launched in response to the September 11 attacks, aimed at dismantling al-Qaeda and removing the Taliban from power.
  • Key Battles:
    • Battle of Tora Bora (December 2001): A major battle aimed at capturing Osama bin Laden, who ultimately escaped.
    • Operation Anaconda (March 2002): An offensive to root out Taliban and al-Qaeda fighters in the Shahi-Kot Valley.
    • Battle of Marjah (February 13 – December 7, 2010): A major offensive to eliminate Taliban influence in the Helmand Province.
  • Heroes:
    • Sgt. 1st Class Leroy Petry: Awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions in Afghanistan, where he saved his comrades by throwing away a live grenade.
    • Cpl. Dakota Meyer: Awarded the Medal of Honor for his bravery in rescuing fellow Marines and soldiers during a Taliban ambush.
    • Sgt. 1st Class Jared C. Monti: Posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for his heroism in attempting to rescue a wounded soldier in Afghanistan.
    • Staff Sgt. Robert J. Miller: Posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions during a combat operation in Afghanistan.

The Iraq War (2003-2011)

  • Operation Iraqi Freedom (March 20, 2003 – December 15, 2011): Aimed at toppling Saddam Hussein's regime and eliminating alleged weapons of mass destruction.
  • Key Battles:
    • Battle of Baghdad (April 2003): The rapid capture of the Iraqi capital, leading to the fall of Saddam Hussein's regime.
    • Second Battle of Fallujah (November – December 2004): One of the heaviest urban combat operations since Vietnam, aimed at clearing insurgents from the city.
    • Battle of Ramadi (2006): Marked a significant turning point in the fight against insurgents in Iraq.
  • Heroes:
    • Sgt. 1st Class Paul R. Smith: Awarded the Medal of Honor posthumously for his actions in the Battle of Baghdad, where he defended a position from an enemy assault.
    • Major General David Petraeus: Led the successful counterinsurgency strategy during the Iraq War, later became the Director of the CIA.
    • Staff Sgt. Salvatore Giunta: Awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions in Afghanistan, where he saved members of his squad from an ambush.
    • Chief Warrant Officer 2 Jason W. Myers: Posthumously awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for his bravery in Iraq.

 

Branch-Specific Traditions

U.S. Army

  • Ranger Creed and Army Values: Core principles guiding soldiers in their duties and conduct, emphasizing honor, integrity, and courage.
  • Army Birthday (June 14th): Celebrating the establishment of the U.S. Army in 1775, recognizing its history and achievements.
  • Key Battles and Dates:
    • Battle of Gettysburg (July 1-3, 1863): A turning point in the Civil War, marking the Union's decisive victory.
    • D-Day (June 6, 1944): The largest amphibious invasion in history, leading to the liberation of Western Europe from Nazi control.
    • Battle of the Bulge (December 16, 1944 – January 25, 1945): The last major German offensive on the Western Front, which ultimately failed.
    • Operation Desert Storm (January 17 – February 28, 1991): Demonstrated the effectiveness of modern military tactics.
  • Heroes:
    • General Dwight D. Eisenhower: Supreme Commander of the Allied Expeditionary Forces in Europe, later the 34th President of the United States.
    • Sgt. Alvin York: Medal of Honor recipient for his actions during World War I, where he captured 132 German soldiers.
    • General George Patton: Renowned for his leadership during World War II, particularly in the European Theater.
    • General Omar Bradley: Known as the "G.I.'s General" for his leadership and care for enlisted soldiers.
    • Private First Class Desmond Doss: The first conscientious objector to receive the Medal of Honor, for his actions as a medic during the Battle of Okinawa.
    • General Douglas MacArthur: Supreme Commander in the Pacific during World War II, known for his role in the occupation of Japan and the Korean War.

U.S. Navy

  • Navy Hymn and Customs at Sea: Maritime traditions honoring the Navy's heritage and fostering a sense of pride and continuity.
  • Crossing the Line Ceremony: A tradition for sailors crossing the equator for the first time, involving rituals and challenges that build camaraderie.
  • Key Battles and Dates:
    • Battle of Midway (June 4-7, 1942): A pivotal naval battle in the Pacific Theater that shifted the balance of power in favor of the Allies.
    • Battle of Leyte Gulf (October 23-26, 1944): The largest naval battle of World War II, leading to the liberation of the Philippines.
    • Operation Neptune (June 6, 1944): The naval component of D-Day, involving the largest amphibious assault in history.
  • Heroes:
    • Admiral Chester Nimitz: Commander in Chief of the Pacific Fleet during World War II, known for his strategic acumen.
    • Lt. John F. Kennedy: Commanded PT-109 during World War II, later became the 35th President of the United States.
    • Admiral William "Bull" Halsey: Played a key role in the Pacific Theater during World War II.
    • Rear Admiral Grace Hopper: A pioneering computer scientist and naval officer, known for her contributions to programming languages and technology.
    • Captain Richard O'Kane: A highly decorated submarine commander during World War II, awarded the Medal of Honor.
    • Admiral Raymond Spruance: Played a key role in the Battle of Midway, demonstrating strategic brilliance.

U.S. Marine Corps

  • Marine Corps Birthday (November 10th): Celebrated with a traditional cake-cutting ceremony and reading of the Marine Corps Order, honoring the Corps' founding in 1775.
  • Esprit de Corps: The deep sense of pride, loyalty, and brotherhood among Marines, fostering unity and morale.
  • Key Battles and Dates:
    • Battle of Iwo Jima (February 19 – March 26, 1945): A crucial battle in the Pacific Theater, symbolized by the iconic flag-raising on Mount Suribachi.
    • Battle of Belleau Wood (June 1-26, 1918): Cemented the Marines' reputation for toughness and tenacity in World War I.
    • Battle of Khe Sanh (January 21 – July 9, 1968): A pivotal battle during the Vietnam War, demonstrating Marine resilience and tenacity.
  • Heroes:
    • General John A. Lejeune: The 13th Commandant of the Marine Corps, who greatly influenced its traditions and professionalization.
    • Gunnery Sgt. John Basilone: Medal of Honor recipient for his heroism on Guadalcanal during World War II.
    • Lt. Gen. Lewis "Chesty" Puller: The most decorated Marine in U.S. history, known for his leadership and valor.
    • Sergeant Major Dan Daly: One of the few Marines to be awarded the Medal of Honor twice, known for his bravery in combat.
    • Major General Smedley Butler: Also a two-time Medal of Honor recipient, recognized for his heroism and service in multiple conflicts.
    • General James Mattis: Known for his leadership and strategic insight, served as the 26th U.S. Secretary of Defense.

U.S. Air Force

  • Airman's Creed and Core Values: Guiding principles for Air Force personnel, emphasizing integrity, service, and excellence.
  • Air Force Birthday (September 18th): Celebrating the establishment of the U.S. Air Force in 1947, recognizing its contributions to air and space superiority.
  • Key Battles and Dates:
    • Berlin Airlift (June 24, 1948 – May 12, 1949): Demonstrated the Air Force's logistical capabilities and commitment to humanitarian missions.
    • Operation Desert Storm (January 17 – February 28, 1991): Highlighted the importance of airpower in modern warfare, leading to a swift victory in the Gulf War.
    • Operation Enduring Freedom (October 7, 2001 – December 28, 2014): Showcased the Air Force's role in global counterterrorism operations.
  • Heroes:
    • General Curtis LeMay: Architect of the Strategic Air Command, instrumental in developing the U.S. nuclear deterrent.
    • Brig. Gen. Chuck Yeager: First pilot to break the sound barrier, symbolizing the pioneering spirit of the Air Force.
    • Lt. Col. Martha McSally: The first American woman to fly in combat and later served as a U.S. Congresswoman.
    • Captain Lance Sijan: Posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for his bravery and resistance while being held as a POW in Vietnam.
    • Colonel Robin Olds: Renowned fighter pilot and triple ace, known for his leadership and combat prowess.
    • Major Richard Bong: The top American fighter ace in World War II, credited with 40 aerial victories.

U.S. Coast Guard

  • Semper Paratus: The Coast Guard's motto, meaning "Always Ready," reflecting their commitment to maritime safety and security.
  • Rescue Swimmer Ethos: Dedication and bravery of Coast Guard rescue swimmers, who perform daring rescues in challenging conditions.
  • Key Battles and Dates:
    • Invasion of Normandy (June 6, 1944): The Coast Guard's role in D-Day, providing crucial support for the landings.
    • Mariel Boatlift (April 15 – October 31, 1980): A massive humanitarian effort, demonstrating the Coast Guard's capacity for large-scale operations.
    • Deepwater Horizon oil spill (April 20, 2010): The Coast Guard's significant role in disaster response and environmental protection.
  • Heroes:
    • Douglas Munro: The only Coast Guardsman to receive the Medal of Honor, recognized for his heroism during the Guadalcanal campaign.
    • Bernard C. Webber: Led the daring rescue of the SS Pendleton crew, showcasing the Coast Guard's dedication to saving lives.
    • Vice Admiral Thad Allen: Commandant of the Coast Guard who played a key role in coordinating the federal response to Hurricane Katrina.
    • Rear Admiral Richard E. Bennis: Known for his leadership during the 9/11 attacks, coordinating the maritime evacuation of Manhattan.

U.S. Space Force

  • Semper Supra: The Space Force's motto, meaning "Always Above," reflecting their commitment to the domain of space.
  • Space Operations Command: The primary field command responsible for conducting space operations, ensuring the U.S. maintains space superiority.
  • Key Missions and Operations:
    • Operation Olympic Defender: A multi-national initiative to strengthen deterrence against hostile actions in space.
    • Space Surveillance Network (SSN): Monitors all artificial objects in Earth's orbit, ensuring the safety and security of space operations.
  • Heroes:
    • General John W. Raymond: The first Chief of Space Operations, responsible for establishing the foundations of the Space Force.
    • Lt. Gen. Nina M. Armagno: Director of Staff of the United States Space Force, playing a key role in its development and operations.

    • Dr. Sally Ride: The first American woman in space, symbolizing the pioneering spirit and commitment to space exploration.

       

Conclusion

Embracing military history and traditions is essential for every cadet, midshipman, officer candidate, and enlistee. By understanding the past, respecting customs and courtesies, and preparing diligently for your journey, you will be well-equipped to serve with honor, courage, and commitment. Welcome to the military family, and best of luck in your training and future service!