Birth of Alexander Calder
Sculptor Alexander Calder was born on July 22, 1898, in Lawnton, Pennsylvania. He was best known for his moving art “mobiles” stationary sculpture “stabiles” as well as monumental-sized public works.
Military
Battle of Guam
On July 21, 1944, US troops landed on Guam, initiating a three-week battle to recapture the island. Today, the people of Guam celebrate July 21 as Liberation Day.
Birth of US Army’s Medal of Honor
On July 12, 1862, President Abraham Lincoln signed legislation creating a Medal of Honor to be awarded to members of the Army. Of the more than 3,500 medals of honor awarded since then, 1,520 were for Civil War service.
US Troops Clear Saipan
On July 9, 1944, American troops claimed victory after a three-week battle on Saipan. Having broken through the Japanese defenses, this enabled the US to launch strategic bombing campaigns.
Start of the Bicentennial Series
On July 4, 1971, the USPS issued the first stamp in the Bicentennial Series. Over the course of six years, the USPS issued 113 commemorative stamps honoring the 200th anniversary of the American Revolution.
Union Wins the Battle of Gettysburg
On July 3, 1863, Union forces turned the tide of the Civil War with their victory at the Battle of Gettysburg. It helped to raise morale in the North and was a major turning point in the war.
Birth of George Washington Goethals
US Army general and civil engineer, George Washington Goethals was born on June 29, 1858, in Brooklyn, New York. Under his leadership, the Panama Canal was completed two years ahead of schedule.
Birth of Chesty Puller
Lewis Burwell “Chesty” Puller was born on June 26, 1898, in West Point, Virginia. The most decorated Marine in US history, Puller stands as a symbol of esprit de corps.
First Canal Zone Stamps Issued
On June 24, 1904, the US issued its first stamps for use in the Canal Zone. The stamps were used by the thousands of workers who built and maintained the Panama Canal.