Army’s 250th Birthday June 14
Celebrate the 250th Birthday of the United States Army on June 14th.
An official cake-cutting ceremony will be held at American Village in Montevallo.
Plan your own community celebration.
Here are instructions for an official Army cake-cutting ceremony, but you can create your own celebration!
The U.S. Army’s birthday cake-cutting ceremony is a time-honored tradition that symbolizes the Army’s rich history and the passing of experience from one generation to the next. While there isn’t a standardized script like the Marine Corps’ version, a typical ceremony includes the following elements:
Introduction: The ceremony begins with a brief welcome and an explanation of the significance of the event, highlighting the Army’s history and traditions.
Guest of Honor: The first piece of cake is traditionally presented to the guest of honor, acknowledging their contributions and presence.
Oldest and Youngest Soldiers: The next pieces of cake are presented to the oldest and youngest soldiers present. This act symbolizes the continuity of experience and the passing of knowledge within the Army ranks.
Cake Cutting: The cake is often cut using a ceremonial saber (Army Officer Saber), emphasizing the Army’s role as a band of warriors committed to defending the nation.
While the specific script can be tailored to fit the occasion and audience, incorporating these traditional elements will help honor the Army’s legacy and foster a sense of unity and continuity among its members.
30 Minutes Before the Ceremony
• Ensure the ceremonial saber and cake are ready at the designated area.
• Confirm the presence of key participants (oldest soldier, youngest soldier, guest of honor).
• Conduct a quick walkthrough with participants to explain their roles.
Master of Ceremonies (MC):
“Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to the [insert year] celebration of the United States Army’s [insert number] Birthday. Today, we commemorate the Army’s legacy of selfless service to the nation and honor its soldiers—past, present, and future. Thank you for joining us in celebrating this special occasion.”
National Anthem and Invocation
• Play or sing the National Anthem.
• Chaplain or designated individual delivers a brief invocation or prayer.
Example Prayer:
“Almighty God, we thank You for the proud history and legacy
of the United States Army. Today, we honor the men and women who have served and continue to serve with dedication and courage. Bless this ceremony, and may we never forget the sacrifices made in defense of our nation’s freedom. Amen.”
Historical Reflection—MC:
“This year, we mark the 250th anniversary of the Army’s establishment on June 14, 1775. Over the years, the Army has played a vital role in securing liberty and defending democracy around the globe. As we celebrate today, let us remember the brave soldiers who have answered the call to serve.”
Recognition of Participants—MC:
“It is a tradition in the United States Army to cut the birthday cake with the participation of the oldest and youngest soldiers present. This represents the Army’s past and future and signifies the timeless bond between all soldiers.”
• Introduce the guest of honor (if applicable).
• Introduce the oldest soldier and provide a brief bio (e.g., name, rank, years of service).
• Introduce the youngest soldier and provide their details (e.g., name, rank, time in service).
Cake Cutting Ceremony—MC:
“And now, it is time to cut the Army’s birthday cake. The first slice will be presented to our guest of honor. Following this, the cake will be cut by the oldest and youngest soldiers using a ceremonial saber, symbolizing the Army’s history, traditions, and the passing of knowledge and experience from one generation to the next.”
• The guest of honor receives the first slice of cake.
• The oldest and youngest soldiers cut the cake together
using the saber.
• The oldest soldier takes the second slice and presents it
to the youngest soldier.
Closing Remarks—MC:
“Thank you for joining us today to celebrate the United States Army’s 250th Birthday. Let us continue to honor the legacy of the Army and the incredible service of its soldiers, who remain steadfast in their duty to our nation. Please enjoy the refreshments and fellowship as we commemorate this special day. Army Strong!”
Reception
• Cake and refreshments are served to all attendees.
• Allow time for photos with the ceremonial saber, the
cake, and the key participants.
Additional Notes
• Adjust timing based on your audience and available time.
• Include Army music (e.g., “The Army Goes Rolling Along”) during transitions.
• Ensure the ceremonial saber is safely handled and appropriate for use.
Tips:
• Contact a local bakery or grocery store in your area to create a cake with the Army’s branch of service seal as decoration.
• Add red, white and blue cupcakes or cookies for children and others in attendance.
• Contact SAR for a Color Guard to present the colors (flags of the United States, State Flag, and Army Flag)