Honoring 250 Years of Army Excellence at USO Humphreys: A Tribute to Service, Alliance and Support

On Saturday, June 14, 2025, the United States Army marked a monumental milestone—its 250th birthday. At USO Humphreys, located in Maude Hall, the local military community came together to honor the Army’s enduring legacy and the men and women who have upheld its proud tradition. The event, hosted on June 10, proved to be a meaningful tribute filled with reflection, gratitude and camaraderie.

The celebration began with opening remarks from U.S. Army Garrison (USAG) Humphreys Commander Colonel Ryan K. Workman, who reflected on the Army’s two and a half centuries of selfless service and steadfast commitment to defending freedom across the globe.

“This weekend, June 14th, is our Army’s 250th birthday,” said Ryan “We’ve been around a long time. We’re older than the nation itself. For 250 years, whenever our nation’s called, our Soldiers have met the challenge.”

In his speech, Ryan emphasized the Army’s unbroken legacy of duty—from the Revolutionary War to modern-day operations in Korea, Europe and the Middle East: “We have never failed to meet the call when our nation needed us. The Army’s birthday celebration is really a celebration of our heritage as an Army—the legacy of the Soldiers that came before us.”

He also highlighted the vital importance of the U.S.–Republic of Korea Alliance, calling it a cornerstone of regional security and a testament to the strength of shared commitment. Additionally, Ryan expressed deep gratitude to the USO, noting its ongoing efforts to care for Soldiers and their families.

“Again, thank you to the USO for putting this together,” he said. “Everything that we do is in [our predecessors’] honor, so don’t let them down. Continue the great tradition that our Army has done—defending freedom for our nation and our allies around the world for 250 years.”

Following the speech, attendees observed a traditional cake-cutting ceremony, with the youngest and oldest Soldiers present joining Ryan to slice the Army Birthday cake, symbolizing the passing of values and tradition from generation to generation. The celebration concluded with a USO-hosted luncheon, where Soldiers, veterans and community members gathered to share stories, laughter and a shared sense of pride in the Army’s enduring mission.

Ryan closed his remarks with heartfelt recognition: “Happy birthday to all of you Soldiers here today, and thank you to all of our Soldiers, our veterans and our family members who serve now and who have served in the past.”

The 250th Army Birthday celebration at USO Humphreys served not only as a joyful occasion, but as a powerful reminder of the courage, dedication and unity that have defined the United States Army since 1775.

Happy 250th Birthday, U.S. Army—This We Defended with Pride!