The United States Army was officially founded on June 14, 1775, with the establishment of the Continental Army. This initial force, comprised of militias and citizen soldiers, played a crucial role in securing American independence from Great Britain during the American Revolutionary War. Since its founding, the Army has grown and evolved, participating in numerous wars and conflicts, and playing a vital role in the nation’s defense and development.

Key Milestones and Events:

• Continental Army (1775):.The Second Continental Congress authorized the creation of the Continental Army to fight against the British.

• American Revolution (1775-1783): The Army fought for independence, facing numerous battles and challenges.

• War of 1812 (1812-1815): The Army faced another conflict with Great Britain, defending the young nation.

• Indian Wars (18th and 19th centuries): Opens in new tabThe Army was involved in conflicts with Native American tribes, often leading to land acquisition and displacement.

• Mexican-American War (1846-1848): The Army fought and won a significant war that expanded the United States territory.

• Civil War (1861-1865): The Army was deeply involved in the war that divided the nation, ultimately preserving the Union.

• World Wars (1917-1918, 1939-1945): The Army played a crucial role in both World Wars, contributing to Allied victories.

• Korean War (1950-1953):The Army participated in the Korean War, a major conflict in the Cold War era.

• Vietnam War (1964-1975): The Army was heavily engaged in the Vietnam War, a protracted and controversial conflict.

• Global War on Terror (2001-present): The Army has been actively involved in the global war on terror, including conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq.

Celebrating 250 Years in 2025

On June 14, 2025, the United States Army proudly celebrates its 250th birthday, marking a quarter-millennium of service, sacrifice, and steadfast defense of the nation.

Founded in 1775 by the Continental Congress, the Army was established to fight for American independence during the Revolutionary War, with soldiers under General George Washington laying the foundation for a legacy of resilience and adaptability.

Over the centuries, the Army has evolved from a fledgling force into a global symbol of strength, playing pivotal roles in conflicts from the Civil War to World War II, Vietnam, and modern operations in the Middle East. This milestone anniversary honors not only the institution but also the millions of soldiers who have served, embodying values of duty, honor, and courage while shaping the nation’s history through their unwavering commitment.

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The 250th birthday serves as a moment to reflect on the Army’s transformative journey and its enduring impact on both national security and societal progress. Today’s Army is a technologically advanced, highly trained force, equipped to address 21st-century challenges ranging from cyber warfare to humanitarian missions.

Celebrations across the country, including ceremonies, parades, and community events, highlight the Army’s deep connection to the American people, fostering pride and gratitude for its contributions. As the Army looks to the future, it continues to innovate and adapt, ensuring its readiness to protect the nation’s freedoms for generations to come. This historic milestone underscores the Army’s motto, “This We’ll Defend,” as a timeless pledge to safeguard the United States and its values.

The History of Flag Day

Flag Day in the United States, observed annually on June 14, commemorates the adoption of the national flag by the Second Continental Congress in 1777. Its history reflects both the flag’s evolution as a symbol of American identity and the grassroots efforts to honor it. Below is a concise overview of Flag Day’s origins and development.

Origins and Early History

On June 14, 1777, the Continental Congress passed a resolution stating, “That the flag of the thirteen United States be thirteen stripes, alternate red and white; that the union be thirteen stars, white in a blue field, representing a new constellation.” This design, attributed to Betsy Ross in popular lore (though evidence is inconclusive), marked the first official American flag, symbolizing unity and independence during the Revolutionary War. The date of this resolution became the cornerstone of Flag Day.

The flag’s design evolved as the nation grew, with stars added for new states and modifications to stripes and colors. By the 19th century, the flag was a potent symbol of national pride, especially during the Civil War, when it represented the Union’s resolve. However, no formal national holiday existed to celebrate it until much later.

Emergence of Flag Day

The push for Flag Day began in the late 19th century, driven by patriotic fervor and local initiatives:

• 1877: The centennial of the flag’s adoption sparked informal celebrations, though no national recognition occurred.

• 1885: Bernard J. Cigrand, a Wisconsin schoolteacher, is credited with the first formal Flag Day observance. He had his students honor “Flag Birthday” on June 14, advocating for a national holiday thereafter.

• 1893: Philadelphia became one of the first cities to hold a large-scale Flag Day event, raising flags over public buildings.

• 1916: President Woodrow Wilson issued a proclamation establishing June 14 as Flag Day, citing the flag’s role as a unifying emblem. This was not yet a federal holiday but a significant step.

Local and state celebrations grew, with schools, civic groups, and veterans’ organizations hosting events. New York was the first state to recognize Flag Day as a state holiday in 1900, and others followed.

Official Recognition and Modern Observance

• 1949: President Harry S. Truman signed an Act of Congress designating June 14 as National Flag Day, urging Americans to display the flag and reflect on its significance. The act did not make it a federal holiday (federal employees work, and it’s not a day off), but it formalized annual observances.

• 1966: Congress also established National Flag Week, encouraging flag displays for the week surrounding June 14.

Today, Flag Day is marked by ceremonies, parades, and educational events, often led by groups like the American Legion and Scouts. The U.S. Army, celebrating its 250th birthday on June 14, 2025, often ties its commemorations to Flag Day, as the flag symbolizes the values soldiers defend. The holiday also prompts reflection on flag etiquette, codified in the U.S. Flag Code of 1942, which outlines respectful display and handling.

Cultural and Historical Significance

Flag Day underscores the flag’s role as a dynamic symbol of resilience, freedom, and unity through wars, social movements, and national milestones. Its history mirrors America’s growth, from a fledgling republic to a global power. While less prominent than holidays like Independence Day, Flag Day remains a quiet but meaningful tribute to a shared emblem.

Each July, the Nez Perce Wallowa Homeland becomes a place of reunion for descendants of the original inhabitants of waláwa, today known as Wallowa County. Year after year, participants enjoy three days of song and dance, culminating in a walasit service and Friendship Feast. Descendants, locals, and visitors attend together.

No, I’m not Native (both of my grandkids are part native); I am a half-Austrian/Bohemian and Franconian free spirit for whom Native American culture and spirituality resonate with the deepest core of my being. It manifests a profound connection that feels like a homecoming to a spiritual ancestral home. Their worldview and connection to the natural world mirror my own beliefs and values in an almost uncanny way.

Hence, each July, I look forward to reuniting with friends and making new connections. Immersing myself in the moment as soon as the camera meets my eye, I live to create unforgettable memories for those who are here. Time is meaningless at Tamkaliks because we are on “Nez Perce Time” inhaling the present as a gift from our creator.

I’ve attended Tamkaliks since 2008, starting as a freelance photographer who only shot pictures for her private portfolio. Everything changed in 2018 when I published a few of my images on my personal Facebook wall. That same day, participants, family members, and friends of the dancers left joyful replies. Three days later, the Nez Perce Wallowa Homeland contacted me inquiring if they could purchase some pictures. I declined the purchase part and replaced it with an offer to donate every picture I had taken since 2008 back to the Homeland. The rest is history.

I was asked not only to attend Tamkaliks as an “invited” photographer but also to design the annual Tamkaliks souvenir program. In 2020, COVID hit and forced the Tamkaliks committee to cancel the festivities in 2020 and 2021. Back on our feet in 2022, we welcomed more dancers, families, drummers, vendors, and spectators than ever before. In 2023, I had the honor of being chosen as an “official” photographer.

This year’s Tamkaliks took place in extreme heat, especially on Saturday. Because of the extreme heat, which reached temperatures of about 103 degrees, it was decided to forgo the afternoon competitions and proceed with the event at 6 pm that evening.

After honoring the winners Sunday evening, the dancers, family, friends, vendors, and spectators returned home, and I started editing hundreds and hundreds of images, reliving this incredible event one more time picture by picture. Of course, not every picture survives a strict sorting process, and I only offer a sample for review right here, but say, the final galleries for the dancers and their families were huge. After 14 days, the task was done.

To me, Tamkaliks is a three-day rejuvenating spiritual journey accompanied by a momentum of urgency to document the history of a People who have welcomed me with open arms.

Qe’ci’yew’yew’ (Thank You) for welcoming me into your world!
I deeply appreciate the opportunity to be immersed in your culture, which has profoundly enriched my life’s journey and greatly contributed to the person I am today.

Continue reading and don’t miss the picture gallery at the end of the story…

If you have never attended Tamkaliks:

Shooting in the evening produces beautiful shades and contrasts. Shooting at night can be an enormous challenge because of limiting lightning in the dance arbor unless one considers nighttime a chance to become creative and artistic as needed in shooting and during the editing process.

Tamkaliks, like other Powwows, are vibrant celebrations of Native American and First Nations cultures where Natives come together to dance, sing, and honor their traditions. What began as smaller, tribal-specific ceremonies have grown into large, intertribal events that draw participants from far and wide.

At Tamkaliks, you’ll find a diverse array of dances, from traditional to contemporary styles, accompanied by the rhythmic beats of drums and powerful vocals. The three-day festivities are not only a showcase of cultural heritage, but also serve as important social gatherings for Indigenous communities to reconnect, share stories, and strengthen their bonds.

Beyond the dance and music, Tamkaliks offers a rich tapestry of cultural experiences. Vendors sell handmade crafts, artwork, and traditional foods, providing a glimpse into the lives and artistic expressions of Native peoples.

Tamkaliks is open to everyone, creating opportunities for education and appreciation of the Nez Perce culture. Attending is a chance to witness the resilience and beauty of Nez Perce traditions. It also fosters a deeper understanding, friendship, and respect for people who have inhabited the waláwa for over 15,000 years.

I hope to see you at Tamkaliks in July 2025!

CLICK HERE for more information about Tamkaliks and the Nez Perce Wallowa Homeland