The State Capitol Mall was packed as civilians and service members gathered in honor of Armed Forces Day, May 14, 2025, in Salem, Ore.
The Oregon National Guard had something for everyone, from the howitzer salute courtesy of 2nd Battalion, 218th Field Artillery, to the F-15 Eagle flyover by the Oregon Air National Guard, music from the 234th Army Band, and military static displays staged around the Mall.
“This Armed Forces Day, we gather to express our profound gratitude for the service and sacrifice of all the remarkable individuals who serve in every branch of our armed forces,” said Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek.
The Oregon National Guard recognized the 20-year anniversary for Oregon Soldiers who deployed to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom during this year’s celebration. Personnel from 2nd Battalion, 162nd Infantry Regiment, headquartered in Springfield were deployed in 2004 and returned back to Oregon in 2005.
Armed Forces Day was created in 1949 by President Harry S. Truman to honor Americans serving in all military branches, replacing the separate Army, Navy, and Air Force Days. The holiday was officially designated in 1962 by President John F. Kennedy.
