Birth of Alan Shepard
Alan Bartlett Shepard Jr was born on November 18, 1923, in Derry, New Hampshire. He was the first American (second person after Yuri Gagarin) to travel into space and the fifth person to walk on the Moon.
World War II
Veterans Day
On November 11, 1954, America first observed Veterans Day, previously known as Armistice Day. Initially a day set aside to honor the veterans of World War I, it was expanded in 1954 to pay tribute to all veterans.
Northern Marianas Becomes U.S. Territory
On November 4, 1986, the Northern Marianas became a territory of the United States. Having previously been a UN Trust Territory of the United States, this change made eligible residents US citizens.
Benjamin Davis Becomes First African American General In The U.S. Army
On October 25, 1940, Benjamin O. Davis Sr. was appointed the first African American general in US Army. He was a driving force behind the desegregation of the Army, which was finally achieved just days after his retirement.
U.S. Takes Possession of Alaska
On October 18, 1867, Alaska became part of America in a move dubbed “Seward’s Folly.”
First Lighthouse in America – Boston Light
On September 14, 1716, the first lighthouse in what would become America was lit for the first time in Boston Harbor. In honor of its long history, it’s the only lighthouse in America to still have a light keeper today.
World War II 50th Anniversary Stamps
On September 3, 1991, the USPS issued the first of five souvenir sheets (later classified as commemorative sheets) honoring the 50th anniversary of America’s entrance into World War II.
Germany Invades Poland
On September 1, 1939, Germany launched a land, sea, and air invasion of Poland, marking the start of World War II in Europe.
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.