The U.S. Navy is 250 years old today! On October 13, 1775, the Continental Congress authorized the first American naval force.
With only two ships and a crew of eighty men, the Continental Navy was born on October 13, 1775. Thus began the long and prestigious heritage of the United States Navy. Today, the U.S. Navy’s total fleet, including active and reserve ships, is around 465 vessels, with new construction and retirements in progress.
Mississippi has two Navy bases: Naval Air Station (NAS) Meridian in Meridian and the Naval Construction Battalion Center (NCBC) in Gulfport. NAS Meridian is the nation’s only joint training and education center for naval air and technical training, while NCBC Gulfport is the home of the Naval Seabees. Mississippi’s history is rich with brave men and women who have served in the U.S. Navy.
The African American Military History Museum held a special event honoring the life and legacy of Ensign Jesse Leroy Brown, the U.S. Navy’s first African American aviator and a true American hero. The celebration featured the historic unveiling of a never-before-seen Navy tunic belonging to Ensign Brown, generously donated by Mr. James C. McComb Sinclair II, a military collector from Philadelphia, PA.
Several years ago, Mr. Sinclair received a gift of a Navy tunic from his aunt. The tunic was a gift that he would cherish for years to come. The name inside the tag read J.L. Brown. After several years of owning this special garment, Sinclair decided to research the name and learned the incredible story of Hattiesburg’s own Jesse Leroy Brown.
“Jesse Leroy Brown is an American hero, but sadly, so many of his personal effects have been lost to history, “said Jessica Knight Henry, granddaughter of Brown. “Receiving this tunic has been such a blessing for our family – giving us a physical connection to him in a way we’ve rarely had.” We’re so appreciative of Mr. Sinclair’s stewardship and donation of the garment, and the African American Military History Museum’s unwavering commitment to preserving Jesse’s legacy,” continued Henry.
The unveiling of Ensign Brown’s tunic offers a tangible connection to his remarkable journey and sacrifice for his country. The timing of this celebration is particularly special, as it took place two days before Ensign Brown’s birthday on October 13. This date also marks the birthday of the U.S. Navy, adding another layer of historical significance to the commemoration of this pioneering naval officer.
Ensign Brown, born October 13, 1926, in Hattiesburg, MS, made the ultimate sacrifice during the Korean War on December 4, 1950. His bravery and unwavering commitment to service continue to inspire generations.
GP Cellulose is the sponsor of Ensign Brown’s tunic exhibit display case. The African American Military History Museum is open to the public Wednesday – Friday from 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. and Saturday from 12:00 noon – 4:00 p.m. There is no charge to visit the museum. For more information, visit https://hattiesburguso.com.
Interesting Fact: Between 1922 and 1972, the Navy celebrated its birthday on October 27, the date of Theodore Roosevelt’s birth. The Navy League of the United States designated the date due to Roosevelt’s foresight and vision in elevating the U.S. Navy into a premier force. The change to October 13 aligns with the first official action legislating a navy. Since 1972, the Navy has officially recognized October 13 as the official date of its birth.
*Photos are courtesy of the African American Military History Museum
