Veteran’s Corner - October 2023

October 6, 2023 

Submission by

GRIC Veterans & Family Services Office

Anchors Aweigh and Happy Birthday to all those who served in the US Navy!

This resolution of the Continental Congress marked the establishment of what is now the United States Navy on October 13, 1775.

“Resolved, That a swift sailing vessel, to carry ten carriage guns, and a proportionable number of swivels, with eighty men, be fitted, with all possible despatch, for a cruise of three months, and that the commander be instructed to cruize eastward, for intercepting such transports as may be laden with warlike stores and other supplies for our enemies, and for such other purposes as the Congress shall direct.

That a Committee of three be appointed to prepare an estimate of the expence, and lay the same before the Congress, and to contract with proper persons to fit out the vessel.

Resolved, that another vessel be fitted out for the same purposes, and that the said committee report their opinion of a proper vessel, and also an estimate of the expence.”

The US Navy flag is used on land, displayed inside naval offices, in parades and for other ceremonial occasions. It is not flown by ships at sea nor on outdoor flagpoles on naval land installations.

Throughout its history, the US Navy has had many traditions. One of these traditions was having a pig and rooster tattooed on the feet or ankles. Since these animals were often kept in wooden crates, they were likely to float to shore in the event of a shipwreck. For the Sailors, having the tattoos was a symbol of good luck for survival at sea.

To all of our Navy Brothers and Sisters, thank you for your service and Bravo Zulu (job well done)!