Individuals are asked to take a few minutes this week to acknowledge all those who are serving in the United States Military.
The first official Armed Forces Day took place on May 20, 1950, and it will be observed on Saturday, May 17th.
Chaplain of New Philadelphia Post VFW Post 1445 Jerry Chenevey is an Army veteran.
“Got my draft notice in 1967. At the time was living in Pennsylvania and came back here to Ohio to go through the induction physical and went down and enlisted. I spent four years active duty. A year in school, a year in Vietnam, and a final two years in Virginia at an ASA station. It was right after I got back from Vietnam that my wife and I married.”
There are six branches of the U.S. Military: Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marine Corps, Navy, and recently created Space Force.
“We all take the same oath. The oath to protect and defend the constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic. Part of that is signing a blank check that states that you’re acknowledging that you may give up to the ultimate sacrifice in defense and protection of our country.”
Chenevey says this is Armed Forces Week and is important to honor those in active duty.
“Us veterans have Veterans Day on November 11th every year. Of course, Memorial Day we honor all of those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. But Armed Forces Day, Armed Forces Week is dedicated to recognizing and honoring those who are currently serving. All of us, whether we’re veterans, actively serving, reserved, or National Guard we all take the same oath.”
Ahead of this week’s recognition, last Friday was Military Spouse Appreciation Day. Chenevey explains that family is everything as they support US troops during deployment, reintegration, and reset.
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