NATIONAL COAST GUARD DAY

National Coast Guard Day on August 4th celebrates and honors the courageous work of the service members of Coast Guard. 

The United States Coast Guard is one of the five US Armed Forces. While this maritime service is a branch of the military, they are a multi-missioned service. During peacetime, it operates under the Department of Homeland Security. However, their responsibilities can be transferred to the US Navy by the President of the United States any time deemed necessary, or by Congress during war times.

Always ready, The United States Coast Guard’s official motto in Latin reads Semper Paratus.

Since 1790, the Coast Guard’s missions have changed. As the nation and the military services grew, maritime needs evolved. In 1917, the first Coast Guard aviators graduated from Pensacola Naval Aviation Training School. Today, aviation is a large part of the Coast Guard’s security, enforcement, and defense readiness.

Always ready to protect our shores and waterways, the Coast Guard provides more than search and rescue. They are a large part of the nation’s navigation system and Marine Environmental Protection.

When Hurricane Katrina struck the Gulf Coast of America, the US Coast Guard saved over 33,500 lives. Their maritime efforts rescued an estimated 24,000 lives from peril in severely dangerous conditions.

Since 1790, service members have been at the ready to provide support whatever the mission. Their commitment continues today. 

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NATIONAL COAST GUARD HISTORY

The United States Coast Guard traces its founding to an act of Congress on August 4, 1790.  The Coast Guard consisted of 10 vessels that carried out the enforcement of various trade and humanitarian duties.

HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalCoastGuardDay

In America, thousands of events nationwide honor the Coast Guard. Get involved and show your support. Other ways to celebrate the day include:

  • Taking a tour of one of the many Coast Guard museums in the country.
  • Share stories of Coast Guard experiences.
  • Listen to the U.S. Coast Guard Band.
  • Watch movies featuring the Coast Guard. Find a complete list here.
  • Read about the Coast Guard in The Coast Guard by José Hanson and Tom Beard or So Others May Live: Coast Guard’s Rescue Swimmers: Saving Lives, Defying Death by Marth J. Laguardia-Kotite and Tome Ridge

Post on social media using #NationalCoastGuardDay.

Alternating in August

August is a month of transition, marked by a blend of summer’s lingering warmth and the impending arrival of fall. As families prepare for the back-to-school season, August provides a unique opportunity to celebrate a variety of national days that capture the essence of this transitional period. From quirky observances to meaningful commemorations, the month offers a diverse palette of events that encourage reflection, creativity, and enjoyment.

One of the standout features of August is its rich array of national days that highlight different aspects of life. For instance, National Watermelon Day on August 3 invites families to gather and enjoy this refreshing fruit, perfect for summer picnics. It serves as a reminder of the joys of summer, encouraging people to take a moment to appreciate the simple pleasures. Similarly, National Relaxation Day on August 15 prompts individuals to take a break from their busy schedules, emphasizing the importance of self-care and mental well-being.

As August unfolds, the month presents opportunities for community engagement and awareness. National Dog Day on August 26 celebrates our furry companions and raises awareness about the importance of adopting pets from shelters. This day not only honors the bond between humans and dogs but also encourages responsible pet ownership and the significance of animal welfare. Engaging in activities such as dog walks or adoption events can foster community spirit and compassion.

In addition to these celebrations, August is also a time for personal growth and creativity. National Craft Month encourages individuals to explore their artistic sides, whether through painting, knitting, or DIY projects. This observance highlights the therapeutic benefits of crafting, promoting mindfulness and relaxation. By dedicating time to creative pursuits, individuals can find joy in the process of making, which can be particularly fulfilling as summer draws to a close.

Celebrating All August

National Dog Month
Black Business Month
Children’s Eye Health and Safety Month
Family Fun Month
Get ready for Kindergarten Month
Happiness Happens Month
International Peace Month
MedicAlert Awareness Month
Motorsports Awareness Month
National Back to School Month
National Brownies at Brunch Month
National Catfish Month
National Crayon Collection Month
National Eye Exam Month
National Goat Cheese Month
National Golf Month
National Hair Loss Awareness Month
National Immunization Awareness Month
National Panini Month
National Sandwich Month
National Water Quality Month
National Wellness Month
Romance Awareness Month
Spinal Muscular Atrophy Awareness Month                                                                  The Allure of August’s Birthstone: Peridot

August’s traditional birth flowers are the gladiolus (symbolizing strength and sincerity) and the poppy (rest and imagination); the birthstone is peridot, a bright green gem associated with vitality and protection; zodiac signs for August are Leo (July 23–August 22), noted for confidence and warmth, and Virgo (August 23–September 22), known for practicality and attention to detail.

Famous birthdays in August:
– August 4 — Barack Obama 
– August 4 — Meghan Markle 
– August 5 — Neil Armstrong 
– August 6 — Lucille Ball 
– August 7 — Charlize Theron 
– August 9 — Whitney Houston 
– August 11 — Chris Hemsworth 
– August 16 — Madonna 
– August 17 — Robert De Niro 
– August 23 — Kobe Bryant 
– August 29 — Michael Jackson

Ultimately, August’s alternating themes of celebration and reflection create a dynamic atmosphere for individuals and families alike. As the month progresses, it serves as a bridge between the carefree days of summer and the structured routine of fall. By participating in the various national days, people can not only enjoy the present but also prepare for the changes that lie ahead, making August a month of both fun and meaningful experiences.

NATIONAL HIRE A VETERAN DAY

Every day, hundreds of our military personnel leave the service in search of civilian employment. On July 25th, National Hire A Veteran Day reminds employers to consider veterans to fill their open positions. As highly trained, qualified individuals, they’re ideal for numerous trades.

Legislation protects separating service members as they enter the civilian workforce. However, the best way a potential employer can honor a veteran is to hire one!

While other service members continue to serve in points unknown, the day provides their returning brothers and sisters with an opportunity. Many skills gained in the military world transfer to the civilian world. Both small and large businesses benefit from the talent of our veterans, too. Regardless of the position, find qualified candidates in a range of fields. For example:

  • Information Technology
  • Engineering
  • Cyber Security
  • Sales
  • Marketing
  • Management
  • Finance
  • Healthcare
  • Skilled Trades

NATIONAL HIRE A VETERAN DAY HISTORY

Marine Corps veteran Dan Caporale, founder of Hire Our Heroes, also founded National Hire a Veteran Day. The day serves as a call to action to hire more veterans! By spreading awareness and creating the #1 Veteran Job Board platform, Hire Our Heroes has become the connective tissue linking corporate America to our veterans. It also supports the job searches of veteran spouses looking for employment.

Veterans deserve the ultimate respect. They have and continue to sacrifice in the fight to preserve the freedoms we enjoy. Try honoring these dates as well.

For information on how to make an impact and join in the national movement, please visit www.hireourheroes.com. Or reach out to Dan Caporale directly on LinkedIn or via email dan@hireourheroes.com

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HOW TO OBSERVE #HireAVeteranDay

“Hire for Attitude, Train for Skill” and do it with a Veteran!

Starting in July and throughout Veterans Day you can post your current job openings to Hire Our Heroes Veteran Job Board. When you visit the website, use promo code Hire a Vet to earn a 50% discount on unlimited job postings.

For year-round partnerships, employers and veterans can find more assistance and free training resources at www.hireourheroes.com, too. The website also offers a search for the latest job opportunities. Please take a moment to honor our men and women of the Armed Forces. Offering them your time and consideration in the civilian workforce is one of the best ways to do that. Share the story, too! Use #HireAVeteranDay to share on social media.

ARMY BIRTHDAY

Every year on June 14, the United States Army celebrates its creation in 1775.  2025 celebrates 250 years of this military tradition. 

Formed from amateur troops of volunteer soldiers defending colonies against British tyranny, the oldest military force in the United States began before the U.S. formally existed. Their forces consisted of mostly inexperienced militiamen commanded by independent colonial armies. According to battlefields.org, there were never more than 48,000 Continental soldiers at one time. Today, the United States Army consists of over one million active duty service members and an additional 800,000 National Guard and Reserves members.

The enduring history of the U.S. Army means they have been integral to many of the United State’s military, peace-keeping and humanitarian efforts. During the Army’s Birthday, these and many advancements will be recognized through events and ceremonies.

HISTORY

On June 14, 1775, the Second Continental Congress created a Continental Army (some that still exist today) to protect the Northern colonies from British troops.

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HOW TO OBSERVE

10 ARMY BIRTHDAY OBSERVATIONS
Wish the Army a Happy Birthday. You can also learn about the history of the oldest branch of the U.S. military. Let those who serve in the Army know how important their volunteer service means to you. 

  • Share memories of your military service in the Army.
  • Buy an Army veteran a meal or drink.
  • Donate to your favorite veteran’s organization.
  • Volunteer your time with a veteran’s organization.
  • Raise the Army colors at your home or business.
  • Exercise your right to vote.
  • Offer an Army veteran an interview when they apply for a job at your place of business.
  • Offer an Army spouse an interview when they apply for a job at your place of business.
  • Show support to a military family through deployments, moves, and transfers.
  • Show your support for the U.S. Army members, active and retired, on social media using the hashtag #ArmyBirthday.

MEMORIAL DAY

Memorial Day, a United States Federal holiday, is observed each year on the last Monday in May. We honor and remember all the men and woman who have died while serving in the United States Armed Forces.

Memorial Day is also a day to remember all loved ones that have passed away.

Traditionally on Memorial Dayu, the flag of the United States of America is raised briskly to the top of the staff then solemnly lowered to the half-staff position where it remains until noon. At noon, it is then raised to full-staff for the remainder of the day.

When the flag is at half-staff, the position is in remembrance of the more than one million men and women who gave their lives for their country.  Raising the flag at noon signifies the nation lives, that the country is resolved not to let their sacrifice be in vain but to rise up in their honor and continue to fight for liberty and justice for all.

American Sniper: The Chris Kyle Commemorative Edition 
American Sniper: The Chris Kyle Commemorative Edition 


Good Morning, Vietnam (25th Anniversary Edition) [Blu-ray]

25th Anniversary Edition, 5th Anniversary Edition

Robin Williams (Actor), Forest Whitaker (Actor)
Good Morning, Vietnam (25th Anniversary Edition)

Robin Williams (Actor), Forest Whitaker (Actor)
North and South
North and South

HISTORY

Honoring the men and women who have died while serving in the military, Memorial Day has been kept in various forms in the United States since the end of the Civil War. General John Logan called for a nationwide day of remembrance on May 5, 1868. On May 30 Decoration Day was first observed.

General James Garfield spoke at Arlington National Cemetery. Generals Grant, Howard, Logan, Pane, Wool, and Hancock attended the ceremony, and volunteers decorated the graves of 20,000 Union and Confederate soldiers.

Across the country, humble tributes occurred on that first Decoration Day. Just outside Fort Stevens near Washington, D.C., there was a small cemetery where 40 soldiers were buried, one of whom belonged to a widow from Northern Vermont. He was one of three sons she lost to the war. On Decoration Day, she went to the cemetery carrying 40 wreaths for 40 graves.

Someone placed a laurel wreath upon the head of a Lincoln statue at City Hall, Washington D.C.

In Cincinnati, Hamilton and Dayton Railroads transported passengers to the Spring Grove Cemetery.  Flags were displayed at half-mast along the routes.  Floral wreaths were placed on the soldiers’ graves and speeches made.  Many of the first Decoration Days recognized only the Union soldiers, though some included the Confederate soldiers as well.  Over time, the day grew to include all those soldiers lost during the conflict.

Decoration Day gradually became known as Memorial Day and now honors all U.S. military personnel who have died during a military conflict. Memorial Day continued to be observed on May 30 until Congress passed the Uniform Monday Holiday Act of 1968. Since 1971, Memorial Day has been observed the last Monday of May.

Our family typically honors this holiday with a barbecue.  We never forget those, some members of our family who have given their full measure of devotion, for the freedoms we enjoy.

Find recipes for great food here.  Check back often as we are always expanding the collection.  Whether it’s Fall off the Bone Baby Back Ribs, deviled eggs, Cheesecake Fruit Salad, Easy Broccoli Salad, Cucumber Tomato Salad, or something else that you fancy.

If you do fire up the grill you might want to cook a little extra.  Not only does it make great leftovers or a full meal, throw on some burgers and a brisket for National Hamburger Day on May 28th and National Brisket Day also on May 28th. May is also National Barbecue Month, so light up that grill for some awesome meals.

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HOW TO OBSERVE

Attend Memorial Day services in your community. In your own way, pay tribute in remembrance of service members who have died while serving. Use #MemorialDay to post on social media.

Amazon Memorial Day Sale