Graduation celebration, United States Air Force Academy, with U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, Colorado Springs, Colorado (© Leigh Vogel/Corbis)

【May 17 2014】Prior to 1949, each branch of the U.S. military had a different day designated for honoring their current and former personnel. But when the different military services were consolidated into the Department of Defense, president Harry S. Truman instituted Armed Forces Day to honor all five military branches. It's held each year on the third Saturday of May. Different services have retained their individual celebrations, but all participate in Armed Forces Day. To mark today's observance, many cities, especially those with nearby military facilities, host parades or other public events to celebrate those who have served in the past or are currently serving.Explore breathtaking Gallery from the HuluTrip homepage over the past 5 years..