Today marks the 58th anniversary of Armed Forces Day. On this day, we celebrate and honor our men and women in uniform across all branches, veterans, and those we have lost.

Here's a little history of this special day and its intent.

The theme of the first Armed Forces Day was "Teamed for Defense." It was chosen as a means of expressing the unification of all the military forces under a single department of the government. Although this was the theme for the day, there were several other purposes for holding Armed Forces Day. It was a type of "educational program for civilians," one in which there would be an increased awareness of the Armed Forces. It was designed to expand public understanding of what type of job is performed and the role of the military in civilian life. It was a day for the military to show "state-of-the-art" equipment to the civilian population they were protecting. And it was a day to honor and acknowledge the people of the Armed Forces of the United States.

I did find these quotes from the New York Times regarding this day to be interesting.

According to a New York Times article published on May 17, 1952: "This is the day on which we have the welcome opportunity to pay special tribute to the men and women of the Armed Forces ... to all the individuals who are in the service of their country all over the world. Armed Forces Day won't be a matter of parades and receptions for a good many of them. They will all be in line of duty and some of them may give their lives in that duty."
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Again, from the May 17, 1952, New York Times article: "It is our most earnest hope that those who are in positions of peril, that those who have made exceptional sacrifices, yes, and those who are afflicted with plain drudgery and boredom, may somehow know that we hold them in exceptional esteem. Perhaps if we are a little more conscious of our debt of honored affection they may be a little more aware of how much we think of them."

I bet you won't even find a section in the NYT today that recognizes this day without simultaneously adding critical opinion about the Republicans or the Bush administration. Funny how things change, huh?

Regardless, today is a good day to take a moment to appreciate all the work and sacrifices made by our military. Of course, you can do this on any day.

So, how can you express your gratitude? Thank a soldier personally, volunteer at a veterans' hospital/home, send a support letter to a family member of a fallen soldier, adopt a soldier through Soldier's Angels, help a family whose spouse is serving overseas, or just say a little prayer for their continued safety. We love all of you and are grateful for your service.