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Navy Day - October 27
A Bygone Celebration
Navy Day was established on October 27, 1922 by the Navy League of the
United States. Although it was not a national holiday, Navy Day received
special attention from President Warren Harding. Harding wrote to
then-Secretary Denby:
"Thank you for your note which brings assurance of the notable success
which seems certain to attend the celebration of Navy Day on Friday,
October 27, in commemoration of past and present services of the Navy.
From our earliest national beginnings the Navy has always been, and
deserved to be, an object of special pride to the American people. Its
record is indeed one to inspire such sentiments, and I am very sure that
such a commemoration as is planned will be a timely reminder."
"It is well for us to have in mind that under a program of lessening naval
armaments there is a greater reason for maintaining the highest
efficiency, fitness and morale in this branch of the national defensive
service. I know how earnestly the Navy personnel are devoted to this idea
and want you to be assured of my hearty concurrence."
October 27 was suggested by the Navy League to recognize Theodore
Roosevelt's birthday. Roosevelt had been an Assistant Secretary of the
Navy and supported a strong Navy as well as the idea of Navy Day. In
addition, October 27 was the anniversary of a 1775 report issued by a
special committee of the Continental Congress favoring the purchase of
merchant ships as the foundation of an American Navy.
Navy Day was last observed on Oct. 27, 1949. However, it has still been
observed, unofficially on and around this date since by various naval
entities.
Navy Day 27 October 1945
For the George E. Davis DE-357,
Navy Day 1945 was celebrated in Manila, Philippines, which was only
shortly after the close of WWII. Once again, as in President
Harding's time, it was time for a lessening of arms, although for the
Davis, she would still be awhile serving her country before being
mothballed for the next time she was needed. Below, see the program.
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