Today, our Nation celebrates the 251st birthday of the United States Army, the oldest branch of the most storied and feared fighting force the world has ever known.  For over two and a half centuries, the courage and sacrifice of our soldiers have defended our homeland and kept our Nation sovereign, strong, and free in the blessings of liberty.  Our Republic salutes these heroes, and on this glorious anniversary, we stand as one people, bound by gratitude, humbled by their sacrifices, and