As the official midshipgoat for USNA, I am often asked by fans, “when is the Navy’s birthday?” I also get “do you really eat everything?” The first is a great question, and I needed to double check my math since the Navy is certainly getting up there in years! The second answer is, yes, well anything not tied down….Amazingly, our modern U.S. Navy and Marine Corps are both about to celebrate their 247th birthdays. This first was started when Congress passed legislation to outfit two warships on October 13, 1775, ushering in the Continental Navy. Less than one month later on November 10, 1775, Congress extended that naval legislation to stipulate that “two Battalions of marines be raised.” Thus the U.S. Marine Corps was born. Although both branches went into abeyance after the Revolutionary War, they were both reestablished in the 1790s, and continue to serve with indefatigable fervor.
U.S. Marine Corps and U.S. Navy Birthday 2022 Ideas
As the only midshipgoat, I’d like to celebrate this milestone with my fellow midshipmen with a little flair. So what do you get a military institution that’s celebrating the big 247, you might ask? There are a boatload of great options, as it turns out! I checked out Navyonline.com and found some wonderful ways to make this birthday special for the U.S. Navy, the U.S. Marine Corps, and everyone who continues to play a vital role in our naval defenses.
Fly a Flag for Fun
Since I’m the mascot, I get to see a lot of flags flown at the USNA football games. These large banners are an excellent way to honor the ensigns of the seas and the flags staked by Marines. They’re also incredibly mesmerizing. For a high flying salute to those who serve, you can set a flag out to fly proudly in the wind. You’re not only cheering on the forces standing watch right now, but you’re also remembering all of those who have served in the past.
This vibrant U.S. Navy flag is a great way to celebrate a big birthday, and easy to gift to a Navy lover in your life. It’s made in the USA with weather resistant nylon and spreads a full three by five feet. Whether it’s flapping in the breeze on a boat, in your yard or in another place special to you, the emblem and colors will stir the heart of every passing sailor—and every passerby.
This USA-made USMC flag celebrates the Marine’s storied history with the Eagle, Globe and Anchor emblems and “Semper Fidelis” set against their signature red field. Also three by five feet, it commands a presence wherever it is flown. It’s made with Nyl-Glo 100% heavy weight nylon, a bunting specially treated to minimize sun and chemical deterioration and withstand the elements. Fast drying with colors that last, it also has strong duck heading and large brass grommets to fly it securely. Put this out to show your solidarity with our elite fighting force.
For a historic gift, this blue flag is the perfect pick. Although the event behind the iconic Don’t Give Up the Ship flag didn’t occur until almost 40 years after Navy’s founding, it is widely recognized as one of the most famous sets of words uttered by a Navy captain—and has stood the test of time as the U.S. Navy and U.S. Naval Academy’s rallying cry for over a century. We have the original for you to see in Preble Hall at the USNA Museum, and you can get your own three by five nylon replica to hang proudly for all to see. Also made with pride in the USA, this flag of grit, determination and defiance is an unflagging way to celebrate the Navy’s big birthday.
Get a Sign Designed for the Time
Another great way to celebrate the Navy and Marines every day is by posting a sign, whether it’s on your office wall, on your barn (just a thought) or even on your car. I’ve pulled together some of my favorites here.
This USN wood sign proudly displays the U.S. Navy Crest in a 5.5” x 5.5” format, well suited for an office, den or even a classroom. Made by the Mitchell Proffitt Company, the detail is sharp against a stunning Navy blue background. It triple-serves as a conversation starter, reminder of your love for the U.S. Navy and a nice piece of artwork. Give it as a gift or save it for yourself. Either way, it’s a classic way to mark the Navy’s birthday.
Don’t forget about your car. You can keep the U.S. Marine Corps spirit going with a Marines hitch cover in black or chrome. Evoking the strength of the Marines in a simple but powerful image, it needs no words to cement its loyalties. It’s also very practical. Keep it on when you don’t have a bike rack or trailer on the back, and it will keep rust, debris and any riff raff at bay. 
Put All the Pieces Together
Signs let the world know your loyalties, but sometimes a quiet celebration is in order. This U.S. Navy puzzle reflects on the Navy’s long life, with iconic sea vessels and aircraft from throughout its fascinating history in eye-popping folk art style.
The U.S. Marines puzzle is painted in the same style, and it brings to life many inspiring moments from an imagined U.S. Marine’s career journey, to fighting for our Country. It is a celebration unto itself.
What About a Gift Card?
I wondered that myself. For the centuries old institutions that are hard to buy for—or just seem to have everything, there are gift cards in varying amounts. This way they can pick out exactly what they want, and you can be assured they like their gift!
Don’t forget that you’re giving the Brigade a gift whenever you buy something from Navyonline.com since they give the profits right back to the Brigade to help train the future sailors and Marines of tomorrow.
We wish a hearty happiest of birthdays to both the U.S. Navy and the U.S. Marines. We are so grateful for their bravery, hard work and sacrifice as defenders of our great nation. It’s important to take some time to recognize their incredible achievements over the course of 247 years. Time to light the candles!
