R 191840Z MAY 22
ALMAR 014/22
MSGID/GENADMIN/CMC WASHINGTON DC DMCS//
SUBJ/U.S. ARMED FORCES DAY 2022//
GENTEXT/REMARKS/1.  Each year, Armed Forces Day affords us an opportunity to pause and honor those who put on a uniform and defend the American way of life.  It’s a day to show appreciation for the service and sacrifices of all who serve or have served in our Nation’s Armed Forces.
2.  The United States and our allies emerged from World War II to face new threats of communism and the possibility of nuclear war.  Given the threats of the postwar era, national leaders restructured the national defense system with passage of the National Security Act of 1947, unifying the military branches and national intelligence agencies under one organization, then known as the National Military Establishment.  In an effort to further unify the military branches, Secretary of Defense Louis A. Johnson created a national day of recognition inclusive of all branches to be observed every third Saturday in May.  On the first Armed Forces Day commemoration in 1950, Secretary Johnson stressed the imperative need for all the services to work as a team to ensure “readiness for any eventuality.”
3.  Secretary Johnson’s call for unity and readiness still rings true today, as we continue the tradition of recognizing our Nation’s military services and honoring those who have dedicated themselves to the defense of our Nation.  On 21 May 2022, we pay tribute to all who have served and to the sacrifices members of our Armed Forces make every day to keep our Nation safe and secure.  I thank every Soldier, Sailor, Airman, Marine, Guardian, and Coast Guardsman for your commitment, devotion, and sacrifice.
4.  Semper Fidelis, David H. Berger, General, U.S. Marine Corps, Commandant of the Marine Corps.//