First Unwatermarked Stamp of the 20th Century
On September 27, 1916, the US Post Office issued its first postage stamp on unwatermarked paper in over 20 years. The change was in response to war-time constraints, but would become permanent.
World War I
Birth of Walter Lippmann
Journalist Walter Lippmann was born on September 23, 1889, in New York City, New York. He’s been called the “most influential journalist” of the 20th century and the Father of Modern Journalism.
First USS Constellation Launched
Ordered by a Congressional Act in 1794, the first American ship to be christened the Constellation was launched on September 7, 1797. It was the first ship commissioned into the United States Navy; the first put to sea; and the first to fight, defeat, and capture an enemy vessel.
Founding of the Marine Corps Reserves
On August 29, 1916, President Woodrow Wilson signed the Naval Appropriations Act of 1916, establishing the Marine Corps Reserve.
U.S. #523 Color Error
US #523, the 1918 $2 orange-red Franklin error stamp, was first used on or around August 19, 1918. However, it would be two years before the error was discovered.
Death of WWI Ace Eddie Rickenbacker
On July 23, 1973, Eddie Rickenbacker died in Züruch, Switzerland. As a World War I flying ace, he shot down 22 enemy planes and four balloons.
Creation of the Veterans Administration
On July 21, 1930, President Hoover signed legislation forming the Veterans Administration, often called simply, the VA.
Happy Birthday Henry “Hap” Arnold
General of the Air Force Henry “Hap” Arnold was born on June 25, 1886, in Gladwyne, Pennsylvania. He was an early supporter of military air power, and later became the Air Force’s first five-star general.
Birth of James Montgomery Flagg
Noted artist and illustrator James Montgomery Flagg was born on June 18, 1877, in Pelham Manor, New York. He painted dozens of memorable posters, book covers, magazine covers, and more, with the most notable being his interpretation of Uncle Sam.