Senator Doug Mastriano, a retired U.S. Army colonel and chair of the Senate Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee, has issued a formal tribute to mark the 250th anniversary of the United States Army. The statement honors the Army’s legacy of service and defense since its establishment in 1775.
“For 250 years, the United States Army has stood as the backbone of our nation’s defense and a beacon of freedom around the world,” said Mastriano. “It’s not just a fighting force – it’s a living testimony to what a free people will do to remain free.”
The U.S. Army was established on June 14, 1775, by the Continental Congress and has played a significant role in America’s history through major conflicts from the Revolutionary War to present-day operations worldwide. Mastriano highlighted key moments such as Washington’s stand at Trenton, Chamberlain’s charge at Gettysburg, Sgt. Alvin York’s heroism in World War I, and Gen. George Patton’s actions during World War II.
“The history of the Army is the history of America’s survival,” Mastriano stated. “Time and again, our soldiers have gone where they were needed most – over mountains, through jungles, across beaches – so that others could live in peace.”
He also acknowledged Cold War soldiers stationed in Germany, Operation Desert Storm’s liberation of Kuwait, and sacrifices made post-9/11 against global terrorism.
Drawing from personal experience with his family’s overseas deployments during the Cold War and Middle East missions, Mastriano emphasized family resilience behind each soldier.
“Our soldiers don’t serve alone,” he said. “Behind each uniform is a family who sacrifices endures and stands watch.”
As both senator and veteran advocate for veterans’ rights and military readiness, Mastriano concluded with: “Let us never forget: freedom isn’t passed down like an heirloom. It is earned defended passed on through blood sweat sacrifice Happy 250th Birthday to United States Army may its next 250 years be as honorable as last”
Contact information for further inquiries was provided: Don Beishl at 717-787-6701.
