June 14 is a day that carries two proud traditions: Flag Day, celebrating the adoption of the Stars and Stripes, and the 251st Birthday of the United States Army — the oldest branch of the American Armed Forces.
For veterans, these aren’t just dates on a calendar. They are reminders of the oath they took, the flag they served under, and the institution that shaped who they are.
Flag Day: A Banner Worth Fighting For
On June 14, 1777, the Continental Congress passed the Flag Resolution, establishing the Stars and Stripes as the official flag of the United States. Nearly 250 years later, that flag still flies over every VA hospital, every veterans cemetery, and every American home where a veteran lives.
For those who served, the flag holds a weight that civilians can sometimes struggle to fully understand. It flew over the places you deployed. It was draped over the caskets of those you lost. It was placed in the hands of gold star families. It is folded with precision and presented with ceremony because the people who served under it know exactly what it cost.
This Flag Day, we encourage every Idaho veteran to take a moment — whether you fly one in your yard, keep one framed on your wall, or simply hold it in your memory — and reflect on what that flag means to you.
The Army at 251: A History of Service
On June 14, 1775 — more than a year before the Declaration of Independence was signed — the Continental Congress voted to create the Continental Army. That act of courage and foresight gave birth to what would become the most powerful land force in the world.
251 years later, the U.S. Army has fought in every major conflict in American history:
– The Revolutionary War, where it won the nation’s independence
– The Civil War, where it preserved the Union
– Two World Wars, where it helped liberate Europe and the Pacific
– Korea, Vietnam, the Gulf War, Iraq, and Afghanistan
– And countless other operations around the globe, often unseen and unheralded
Idaho has sent its sons and daughters into every one of those conflicts. From the 116th Cavalry Brigade Combat Team at Gowen Field to soldiers from small towns across the state, Idaho Army veterans have served with distinction and sacrifice.
Army Veterans: Your Benefits Matter
If you are an Army veteran living in Idaho — whether you served two years or twenty — the DAV of Idaho wants to make sure you are receiving every benefit you have earned.
Many veterans leave the service without a full understanding of what they are entitled to. Common benefits that go unclaimed include:
VA Disability Compensation
If you have a service-connected disability — including conditions that weren’t diagnosed until years after service — you may be entitled to monthly tax-free compensation. This includes conditions related to toxic exposure under the PACT Act.
VA Healthcare
Many Army veterans qualify for VA healthcare, even if they don’t have a service-connected disability rating. Eligibility is based on service dates, discharge status, and other factors.
Education Benefits
The GI Bill and related programs can help Army veterans and their dependents pursue college, vocational training, or professional certifications.
Home Loan Guaranty
VA-backed home loans offer favorable terms with no down payment required in many cases.
How DAV of Idaho Can Help
Our National Service Officers are trained VA claims specialists who can help you file for benefits, appeal denials, and navigate the VA system — at no cost to you.
Contact us:
– Phone: (208) 429-2140
– Address: 444 W Fort St., Boise, ID 83702
– Online: dav-idaho.org
Happy Birthday, Army — and Thank You
To every Army veteran in Idaho: today we celebrate the institution you served and the flag you served under. You gave a piece of your life to something larger than yourself. The DAV of Idaho honors that service — not just on June 14, but every day of the year.
*Happy 251st Birthday to the United States Army. And Happy Flag Day to every American who knows what that flag truly means.*
*The DAV of Idaho provides free claims assistance to disabled veterans of all branches. Visit dav-idaho.org to connect with a service officer today.*