Today, October 13, 2017, is officially the Navy’s 242nd birthday. It is hard to believe that the Navy has been around for over two centuries, but it is also hard to imagine the country without it.
The Navy was established in 1775 by the Continental Congress to fight against the British. After the revolutionary war, the Navy was shut down. Soon after, the need for the Navy was recognized after pirates became an international threat, thus, the Navy was brought back permanently in 1794.
Since then, the Navy has proved themselves as a constant source of security to America. We are forever grateful to all those who have served and continue to serve today!
U.S. Navy Facts:
- In the war of 1812, the U.S. Navy was outnumbered by the British 40 to 1. Now, it is the largest naval force in the world.
- The Navy won the largest naval battle in history- the Battle of Leyte Gulf during WWII.
- The largest flying boat ever created was built for the Navy. It had a 200-foot wingspan.
- Women represent 20% of Navy personnel.
- Only 17 people serve with the Blue Angels each year
- Six Presidents served in the Navy:
- George H.W. Bush
- Jimmy Carter
- Gerald Ford
- Lyndon B. Johnson
- John F. Kennedy
- Richard Nixon
On a day like today, it is important to acknowledge veterans who have devoted their lives to protect our country. Their health and wellness should be a priority. Asbestos exposure in the military is a huge cause for concern. This exposure leads to one thing, mesothelioma. Mesothelioma is a terrible cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen and heart. Thirty percent of all mesothelioma cases each year are veterans. Asbestos was used significantly in naval ships for fireproofing and insulation purposes. This exposure puts Navy vets as those who are most at risk for contracting the disease.
For more information on asbestos and mesothelioma, please visit our mesothelioma page.