Navy
Capture of New Orleans
On April 29, 1862, Union Admiral David Farragut captured New Orleans from Confederate forces.
Commodore Perry Opens Trade with Japan
On March 31, 1854, Commodore Matthew Perry signed a peace and trade agreement with Japan. On March 31, 1933, President Franklin Roosevelt established the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) to decrease unemployment in America.
Creation of Permanent U.S. Navy
On March 27, 1794, Congress passed the Naval Act, creating America’s permanent naval force.
The Battle of Hampton Roads
On March 9, 1862, the USS Monitor and CSS Virginia (formerly USS Merrimack) fought in the first battle between two ironclad warships.
Birth of Admiral Chester Nimitz
Chester William Nimitz was born on February 24, 1885, in Fredericksburg, Texas.
The Burning of the USS Philadelphia
On February 16, 1804, Stephen Decatur led a surprise assault on the captured USS Philadelphia in Tripoli.
Sinking of the SS Dorchester
On February 3, 1943, after the SS Dorchester was sunk, four chaplains sacrificed their lives to protect the other men on their boat.
U.S. Coast Guard Established
On January 28, 1915, the Revenue Cutter Service and United States Life-Saving Service were merged to form the US Coast Guard.
Death of Admiral George Dewey
George Dewey, the only man to hold the rank of Admiral of the Navy, died on January 16, 1917.