My beloved Army turns 231 years-old today.

This year’s birthday theme is “Call to Duty – Boots on the Ground.”

“To all of our Soldiers around the world, our thoughts are with you and your families on this 231st Army Birthday. We are humbled by your sacrifices and awed by your achievements,” said Secretary of the Army Dr. Francis J. Harvey.

2006 Army Birthday Message

Call to Duty – Boots on the Ground

The United States Army was born out of the desire to defend liberty and proudly celebrates its 231st birthday on 14 June 2006.

Since 1775, millions have worn the uniform and lived the “Warrior Ethos.” Soldiers have always understood that the freedoms our nation guarantees are worth fighting for and America’s decision to put “boots on the ground” illustrates like no other action its continued commitment to these ideals.

Today, America’s Army is engaged in a global war on terrorism and has a presence in 120 countries. Soldiers have long sacrificed their personal comfort and safety to answer a higher calling. Despite hardships and dangers to life and limb, Soldiers have always answered the call — and our nation has long relied on your courage, your sacrifice and your selfless service.

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Jeff at Protein Wisdom has this birthday thought:

it [the US Army] still moves pretty well for its age, too—as quite a few erstwhile “freedom fighters” in Iraq who would be the first to tell you.