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Saturday, October 13, 2007

Happy 232nd Birthday!

Jean Sexton Writes:

"Resolved, That a swift sailing vessel, to carry ten carriage guns, and a proportional number of swivels, with eighty men, be fitted, with all possible dispatch, for a cruise of three months, and that the commander be instructed to cruise 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 expense, 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 expense."

This resolution, passed by the Continental Congress on October 13, 1775, marks the establishment of the Continental Navy.

During the Revolutionary war, the Navy grew to more than 50 armed ships. These ships took British vessels as prizes (forcing Britain to defend her convoys), transported diplomats to Europe, and returned with needed munitions. The U.S. Navy carries on the proud tradition of the Continental Navy.

While the Navy birthday is primarily a celebration for those who are serving or have served in the Navy and their families, why don't we make a sailor's day and wish our Navy a hearty "Happy Birthday!"

(Thanks to the Department of the Navy's Naval Historical Center's website for providing much of the information!)