2024 Armed Forces Day Luncheon

Come join us for a memorable celebration at the Aqua Turf Club for the 2024 Armed Forces Day Luncheon! Let's honor and show our gratitude to the brave men and women who serve our country. Enjoy a delicious meal, connect with fellow supporters, and participate in activities to commemorate our armed forces. Mark your calendars for this special event!

On August 31, 1949, Secretary of Defense Louis Johnson announced the creation of an Armed Forces Day to replace separate Army, Navy and Air Force Days. The single-day celebration stemmed from the unification of the Armed Forces under one Department, the Department of Defense. In an excerpt from the Presidential Proclamation of Feb. 27, 1950, Mr. Truman stated: “Armed Forces Day, Saturday, May 20, 1950, marks the first combined demonstration by America's defense team of its progress, under the National Security Act, towards the goal of readiness for any eventuality. It is the first parade of preparedness by the unified forces of our land, sea, and air defense.“ It was designed to expand public understanding of what type of job is performed and the role of the military in civilian life. It was a day for the military to show "state-of-the-art" equipment to the civilian population they were protecting. And it was a day to honor and acknowledge the people of the Armed Forces of the United States.

MG Michelle Donahue, CASCOM Commanding General

Aqua Turf, 556 Mulberry St. Plantsville, CT

Parking Information: There will be a parking detail on ground to direct you.

Upon arrival follow signage to the entrance across the bridge.

Business, Service Dress, Class B, or Duty Uniform

$45

Preferred payment is Venmo (Link/QR Code below).

When paying with Venmo, scan the QR Code below and click on the link. Tap the icon in the bottom right hand corner. Enter the total amount for the guest/s you will be paying for, for example $135 for 3 guests or just $45 if paying for yourself. In the "what's this for" section please enter AFDL, Guest/s Names and rank, Organization you are with, and a POC with contact info.

We will accept checks. Makes checks payable to Military Activities Fund. Please write AFDL in memo section of check.

Please send checks to Armed Forces Day Luncheon, William A. O'Neill Armory, 360 Broad Street, Hartford, CT 06105.

Payments will be accepted at the door.

Any RSVPs after 15 May 2024 and those paying at door will be general admission to any available table.

Feel Free to contact us via email at [email protected]

Host or Publisher CT Armed Forces Day Luncheon Committee