BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
A PROCLAMATION
As we observe Armed Forces Day, we take a moment to recognize the courageous individuals serving in America’s Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and Space Force. On a daily basis, these brave men and women diligently protect our freedom, secure our borders, and engage in humanitarian efforts and disaster relief across the globe. They stand as the epitome of heroism in our nation’s storied history.
In my role as Commander in Chief, my foremost duty is to ensure our volunteer military, now boasting a robust force of 2.1 million, remains the most formidable in the world. I have implemented strategic initiatives to enhance military readiness and excellence across all branches, ensuring that our active duty, National Guard, and Reserve members are primed to deploy, engage, and triumph over any adversary in any arena. The strength of America’s military is on the rise, with enlistment figures seeing an unprecedented surge — the highest in three decades since last November.
On this Armed Forces Day, we honor those who embody patriotism not merely as a concept, but as a tangible commitment to serve this nation with courage, alertness, integrity, and dedication. Such devotion deserves not just a day of acknowledgment, but a lifetime of gratitude from a nation that is truly appreciative.
The First Lady and I extend our heartfelt appreciation to our service members — whether on land, at sea, or in the air and beyond — as well as to their families, who share in this journey of service and sacrifice.
THEREFORE, I, DONALD J. TRUMP, President of the United States of America and Commander in Chief of its Armed Forces, in the tradition established by my predecessors, do hereby declare the third Saturday of May as Armed Forces Day. I encourage the Governors of the States and Territories, as well as other areas under U.S. jurisdiction, to promote observance of Armed Forces Day in a manner that enhances public awareness and appreciation for our military. I urge all Americans to display the United States flag at their homes and businesses on this day and to engage with their local communities in events that celebrate military service.
Proclamation 10762 of May 17, 2024, is hereby superseded.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this sixteenth day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-five, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-ninth.
DONALD J. TRUMP
