In this recent file photo, U.S. Navy Sailors from Riverine Squadron Two conduct training with the Iraqi Coastal Border Guard near Umm Qasr, Iraq. The U.S. Navy celebrates its 234th birthday today. Photo courtesy of Multi-National Division – South.

The U.S. Navy recognizes Oct. 13, 1775, as the official date of its establishment. This was due to the passage of a resolution in the Continental Congress determining the requirement of a ship to be requisitioned, "at all possible dispatch ... for intercepting such transports as may be laden with warlike stores and other supplies for our enemies and for such other purposes as the Congress shall direct."

The Congress appointed a committee and requested more ships be dispatched for the same purpose. Benedict Arnold ordered the construction of 12 ships with the plan to slow down the British fleet invading Lake Champlain.

The small fleet accomplished what it was meant to do, but was summarily wiped out or captured by the British Navy during the two-day "Battle of Valcour Island." Thus, the newly formed Navy was able to slow the advance of the British Army as well.

This was the meager beginning that led to the formation of the largest and most technologically advanced Navy in the world.

Since the U.S. Navy's beginning in 1775, it has played a major role in every conflict that has defined the United States as a nation, while becoming the dominant naval power in the world. Happy Birthday, U.S. Navy!