Sailors at the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) headquarters in Kabul, Afghanistan, celebrated the U.S. Navy’s 237th birthday Oct. 13 with a ceremony which included a remembrance of the Bicentennial of the War of 1812.
“ The War of 1812 served a critical turning point for our Navy on this 237th birthday, we have the honor to serve in the greatest maritime fighting force the world has ever seen,” said Senior Chief Hospital Corpsman Trevor Cater as he read the Navy birthday message on behalf of the Chief of Naval Operations, Adm. Jonathan Greenert .
More than 90 participants attended the celebration, including ISAF leadership and service members from other coalition nations. Participants observed the Navy tradition of asking permission to come aboard as they entered the ceremony grounds where they each received a commemorative coin. Participants observed a passing of the flag ceremony as well as recognition of U.S. Marines.
“I would hope that people take away from the ceremony today how important we feel the Navy is to the United States and the impact it makes in the traditions we hold near and dear to our hearts,” said Capt. Teresa Fairbanks , ISAF’s senior Navy representative, who served as the guest speaker for the event.
The event closed with the cutting of the Navy birthday cake by the base’s youngest Sailor and its oldest Sailor.
The U.S. Navy was established Oct. 13, 1775 by Congressional Resolution allowing George Washington to command armed schooners to intercept British supply ships. In 1972, then-Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Elmo R. Zumwalt authorized recognition of Oct. 13 as the Navy’s birthday. Today it is celebrated by active forces as well as Reservists, and Navy veterans.
[mappress] Naval Today Staff,October 17, 2012; Image: ISAF