ISSUED BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
A PROCLAMATION
Two and a half centuries ago, the waves of revolution spread across the waters when the Second Continental Congress took the monumental step of creating what would become the United States Navy — the most formidable and celebrated maritime military force ever imagined. Today, we commemorate the Navy’s vital contributions to protecting our nation and projecting our strength across oceans. We honor the Navy’s essential presence throughout every significant moment in our national journey. Above all, we pay homage to the countless brave Sailors who have steadfastly adhered to the noble creed: Non sibi sed patriae — Not for self, but for country.
Nearly six months following the outbreak of the American Revolution at the Battles of Lexington and Concord, the path to achieving independence lay long and fraught with uncertainty. After King George III dismissed the Olive Branch Petition — the American Colonies’ final effort to avert a full-scale war — it became evident that the Army alone could not fulfill the task. To safeguard their trade freedoms, protect their homes from invasion, and capture British supplies at sea, the American Colonies had to expand their righteous struggle for independence beyond land.
On October 13, 1775, in a bold and unprecedented act of self-governance, the Second Continental Congress adopted a resolution to officially form the Continental Navy.
Almost immediately, the Congress procured ships and established a naval committee, which quickly cemented its legendary status in history. Over the past 250 years, our American narrative has been shaped by pivotal naval confrontations waged by multitudes of Sailors who fiercely defended our liberty with steadfast determination. In every military engagement — from our battle for independence, through two world wars, to conflicts in Korea, Vietnam, and the Persian Gulf — the Navy has preserved our sovereignty at sea and valiantly protected our fundamental right to freedom against every adversary, regardless of size.
In November 1781, just days after the Patriots’ victory against British forces at Yorktown, General George Washington wrote to a French military officer, stating: “It is therefore as certain as that night follows day that without a strong naval force, we can accomplish nothing of importance, yet with it, everything honorable and glorious is achievable.” On this 250th anniversary of the United States Navy, we reaffirm those powerful words. We celebrate the remarkable dedication of our active and Reserve Sailors, along with the families who support the demanding life of service with extraordinary resilience and dignity — and we commit to nurturing our Navy, our nation, and our legacy of freedom for future generations. We will never give up the ship.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, DONALD J. TRUMP, President of the United States of America, under the authority granted to me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, hereby proclaim October 13, 2025, as a day to honor the founding of the United States Navy with appropriate ceremonies and programs. I urge all Americans to recognize the Navy’s rich legacy and the patriotism of all who have served.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
tenth day of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-five, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and fiftieth.
DONALD J. TRUMP
