June 14 is recognized as Flag Day, but it also marks the anniversary of the Army's creation, and this year marks the branch's 238th birthday. The milestone is being observed in a variety of different ways across the country, but one of the biggest celebrations is at Mount Vernon, according to the Army's official website.
The birthday celebrations began several days ago when Secretary of the Army John McHugh visited the former residence of George Washington to lay a wreath at the first president's crypt. He was one of hundreds on hand for the occasion, and aside from recognizing Washington's important role in the founding of the U.S., they also paid tribute to the integral role he played in the formation of the Army.
"Not only was George Washington first in war, first in peace and first in the hearts of his countrymen, he was the first military official to recognize Soldiers who served and sacrificed for what we now call the Purple Heart," Ann Bookout, the regent of the Mount Vernon Ladies' Association, said at the ceremony.
There was also a ceremony held at the Pentagon on Thursday where McHugh, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Ray Odierno, and Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel all spoke.