Since the early 1800s, there has been a rich military history of ongoing battles full of victories and losses. We cannot recount every day—so instead, we’re going to give the high points that are most celebrated in June. With this in mind, we will remember the fallen and give support by educating ourselves on our given liberties and the sacrifices made to have them. Here are the important June days in U.S. military history.

Main Observed Holidays in June

First, we have “Don’t Give Up the Ship” Day on June 1^st. While under the command of James Lawrence in the War of 1812, the U.S. Navy was under siege by Royal Britain, and these were the last words of our fallen captain.

D-Day Invasion is celebrated on June 6^th, which marks the storming of Normandy, France, by British, Canadian, and American troops in WWII. President Eisenhower put in his executive order on this day, which many sacrificed their lives for the liberation of France and the French people of Europe.

On June 13^th, Bunker Hill Day is observed to commemorate the Battle of Bunker Hill. This battle took place as Boston was under siege during the Revolutionary War. This battle was particularly brutal and set the stage for what would be a very close war.

Flag Day is observed on June 14^th as the adoption of the U.S. flag, which originally carried the thirteen stars and stripes to remember the original thirteen colonies. On this day, our nation adopted its official flag. You might find unique original replicas in military uniform stores along with other memorabilia.

Pause for the Pledge Day is also observed on June 17. In 1777, the first continental congress of the United States adopted the U.S. ensign as our country’s flag. And thus, the Pledge of Allegiance followed suit.

On June 14^th, we also observe the birthday of the U.S. Army. During the beginning of the Revolutionary War, Americans from all thirteen colonies rallied together to form the first army in the States.

June 23^rd marks the birthday of the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary. And while it wasn’t a fully active component right away, it would eventually become just as equal with all other military branches of service for both active duty and reserves.

On June 27^th, PTSD Awareness is observed, which highlights those who have gone to war and have been affected by post-traumatic stress disorder. This is a disease caused by excessive trauma, so on this day, we recognize those survivors.

Operation Red Wings Observance happens on June 28^th . This day is for remembering a tight group of Navy SEALS who were behind enemy lines, flying at altitudes of 10,000 feet in Hindu Kush, Afghanistan, during a very important reconnaissance mission.

So, while there are hundreds more historical and important days in the month of June reserved as U.S. military history, these are seen as the most known. It is important that we take moments like these to appreciate our narrative so we can understand what the U.S. symbolizes and how far we’ve come since the inception of the United States of America.