Celebrating 250 Years of Service: The U.S. Army's Historic Milestone

The Second Continental Congress, meeting in Philadelphia after the outbreak of the American Revolution, officially established the Continental Army on June 14, 1775. Led by its Commander-in-Chief, General George Washington, the Army was critical in the fight for U.S. Independence from Britain. Fast-forward to today, it has now been 250 years since the U.S. Army was voted into creation. What started as just 81 men representing ten rifle companies has grown to be the largest U.S. military branch today made up of brave men and women from across America. Bell Textron Inc., a Textron Inc. company, is proud to support the Army.

Bell has a rich history with the U.S. Army that dates back to World War II with the Bell P-39 Airacobra. During the Korean War, Bell supported the Army Air Forces with the H-13 Sioux.

The iconic Bell UH-1 Iroquois, or the “Huey”, supported the Army during the Vietnam War and its versatility made it the ideal aircraft for troop transport and MEDEVAC operations. The Bell AH-1 Cobra attack helicopter also provided close air support during the Vietnam War.

This was followed by the OH-58 Kiowa and subsequently the OH-58D Kiowa Warrior, which filled the scout reconnaissance role for the Army for many years, including in combat in Afghanistan and Iraq.

As the Army celebrates 250 years of service, it is working to modernize and secure the next-generation capability needed to maintain dominance on the battlefield. Bell is honored to continue its legacy as a trusted Army partner with the MV-75, which will transform Army Aviation with the speed, range, and lethality required for overmatch well into the future.

From its foundation in 1775 to where the Army is in 2025, the service has constantly evolved to defend the nation. Bell looks to continue our support well into the future.

Happy Birthday to the U.S. Army!