U.S. Navy 245th Birthday Celebration Communication Plan
BACKGROUND: On October 13, 1775, a resolution of the Continental Congress established what is now the United States Navy with “a swift sailing vessel, to carry ten carriage guns, and a proportionable number of swivels, with eighty men, be fitted, with all possible despatch, for a cruise of three months….” After the American War of Independence, the U.S. Constitution empowered the new Congress “to provide and maintain a navy.” Acting on this authority, Congress established the Department of the Navy on April 30, 1798. In 1972, Chief of Naval Operations Admiral Elmo R. Zumwalt authorized official recognition of October 13 as the birthday of the U.S. Navy.
Since then, each CNO has encouraged a Navy-wide celebration of this occasion “to enhance a greater appreciation of our Navy heritage, and to provide a positive influence toward pride and professionalism in the naval service.” The celebration was codified in NAVADMIN 164/99 by CNO Admiral Jay Johnson who directed that the Navy Birthday and the Battle of Midway “will henceforth be celebrated annually as the centerpieces of our heritage.”
October 13, 2020, will mark the Navy's 245th Birthday. The central theme of this year's celebration is "Victory at Sea," which encompasses the Navy's efforts in battle during World War II.
PURPOSE: This plan streamlines and aligns Navy communication efforts commemorating the 245th Birthday of the United States Navy. It is designed to support Navy commands and staffs as they share stories in speeches, social media, written and broadcast materials, and in discussions with Sailors, colleagues, partners and other key stakeholders.
MISSION: Execute Navy Birthday events in a manner that brings honor and respect upon our service.
TIMING OF CAMPAIGN: Oct. 6-14, 2020
THEME: Victory at Sea, closing the 75th anniversary commemoration of World War II, recognizing 245 years of warfighting excellence, and relating them to modern Sailors who carry that heritage forward today
TONE: Celebratory
GOAL: Inspire esprit de corps among all Naval personnel through the celebration of the Navy’s 245th birthday by honoring the heroes who sacrifice their own interests for the security of all; a team strengthened by diverse perspectives and inclusivity, and the victories at sea won by courageous and resilient Sailors.
MESSAGING FRAMEWORK FOR NAVY BIRTHDAY THEME: VICTORY AT SEA:
Key Message |
Supporting Talking Points |
Victory at sea for the U.S. Navy is driven by the valor of American Sailors
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As in World War II, victory at sea is achieved by Navy heroes among us |
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Victory at sea is assured by an inclusive Navy that represents diverse backgrounds and perspectives |
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HASHTAGS: #245NavyBirthday #VictoryAtSea
COMMUNICATION CHANNELS: All Navy leaders, commands, and units will aggressively leverage all available communication channels to share messaging about the Navy Birthday with Sailors and the public. NHHC will use:
