FARMINGTON—June 14, 2025 marks the 250th anniversary of the formation of the U.S. Army on June 14, 1775 – it is the oldest service branch. In commemoration, the American Legion Post 27-Farmington is taking part in a celebration Saturday, June 14, at Historic Fort Douglas from 9:30 a.m.– 4 p.m. that features a variety of activities.

“The Army was created by the Second Continental Congress," said Post 27 Commander Jon Rue. “It was originally referred to as the Continental Army but later changed to the United States Army.”

The Army was established a year before American Independence was declared. George Washington was unanimously elected to command the new continental force “raised for the defense of American liberty,” according to the National Archives.

Currently, nearly 1 million active duty and reserve troops serve in the U.S. Army. 

Rue entered West Point in 1983. “When I graduated in 1987 I was commissioned into the U.S. Army,” he said. “I’ve always been patriotic. Growing up I enjoyed learning about the military. When it came time to choose an academy I chose West Point. It had history and prestige and just an all around good education.”

The Army was founded so it could defend the colonies from the tyranny subjected by King George, said Rue. “There were other skirmishes with the Native Americans and the French. The Army also protected the pioneers as they came west.”

They needed the cavalry, he said. “That was all part of the Army. For one reason or another there was always that need.”

Fort Douglas is located at 102 Soldiers Circle, Salt Lake City.