ENROLLED JOINT RESOLUTION
Relating to: recognizing the United States Navy’s 250th birthday.
Whereas, the U.S. Navy traces its origins to a vote taken by the Continental Congress on October 13, 1775, to outfit two sailing vessels for the interception of ships that were transporting munitions to the British Army in America; and
Whereas, October 13, 2025, marks 250 years since this historic date; and
Whereas, in our celebration of the U.S. Navy’s 250th birthday, we reflect on its legacy of defending our country’s freedoms, values, and interests; and
Whereas, from the Revolutionary War to the present day, our sailors have courageously defended the United States, its citizens, and its Constitution with the utmost dedication and resolve; and
Whereas, over 330,000 active duty sailors serve our country in accordance with the U.S. Navy’s core values of honor, courage, and commitment; and
Whereas, Wisconsin has played a vital role in supporting the U.S. Navy through its industrial, technological, and personnel contributions, serving as a key partner in preserving America’s maritime strength; and
Whereas, Wisconsin’s rich shipbuilding history includes the construction of a breadth of ships for the U.S. Navy, ranging from submarine chasers built by the Leathem D. Smith Shipbuilding Company to tank landing ships and landing craft utilities built by the Christy Corporation; and
Whereas, Wisconsin continues to aid the U.S. Navy in its mission to protect the nation, notably with the production of the Freedom-class littoral combat ship and the Constellation-class guided-missile frigate; and
Whereas, at least 30 past and current U.S. Navy ships have been named after the state of Wisconsin and its cities, counties, landmarks, and people; and
Whereas, two battleships have proudly borne the name USS Wisconsin: BB-9, the Illinois-class battleship that toured the world as part of the famed Great White Fleet, and BB-64, the Iowa-class battleship that earned a total of six battle stars for her service in World War II and the Korean War; and
Whereas, the U.S. Navy and its sailors, reserves, and civilian personnel will continue to serve their country with relentless vigor and bravery, no matter the challenge before them; and
Whereas, Wisconsin deeply appreciates the immense sacrifices made by the U.S. Navy’s past and present sailors in its 250 years of proud service; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the assembly, the senate concurring, That the Wisconsin Legislature celebrates the U.S. Navy’s 250th birthday on October 13, 2025, and recognizes its rich history and legacy of service.
