October 11, 2022

Navy Day & The Navy’s Birthday

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Asbestos
Lung Cancer
Mesothelioma
Veterans

October is a month filled with celebrations surrounding the Navy. On October 13th, the Navy celebrates its birthday and on October 27th the country celebrates National Navy Day. But what’s the difference? Why do we have two separate holidays to recognize the Navy? One is to celebrate the brave men and women who serve and the other is to celebrate the anniversary of the creation of the Navy. Let’s explore these days a bit further.

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This year on October 13th, the Navy celebrates its 247th birthday! The Navy’s birthday is simply that – the day it was born! On October 13th, 1775, the Continental Navy was established to help keep the British at sea during the Revolutionary War. The Navy’s birthday wasn’t officially celebrated until 1972, but Navy Day on the other hand, has been around since 1922.

white ship on body of water during daytime

While both holidays recognize the service and sacrifices of Navy men and women, Navy Day is specifically about military service, whereas the Navy’s birthday celebrates the history of the United States Navy. Navy Day isn’t a federally recognized holiday, but it is recognized among active Naval members, veterans, and their families as a day of celebration. Many use the day as an opportunity to raise funds for veterans’ charities.

For much of the 20th century, asbestos products were commonly used in the U.S military (including the Navy) for their heat resistant and insulation properties. The Navy used asbestos in the construction of ships, barracks, and other Navy buildings. During service, veterans were likely exposed to asbestos from the use of more than 300 types of asbestos-containing materials and products.

people standing on ship

Our brave veterans who were exposed to asbestos products are at risk to develop lung cancer or mesothelioma. About one-third of people who are diagnosed with mesothelioma are veterans, with the majority of them having served in the Navy. Learn more about asbestos exposure in the military. If you or a loved on are a Navy veteran who has been diagnosed with lung cancer or mesothelioma, fill out a free case evaluation.