May 15

National Defense Transportation Day

Celebrate National Defense Transportation Day by recognizing the important contributions of those who keep our transportation systems running safely and efficiently!

Yearly Date
Third Friday in May
Observed in
United States
Holiday Calendar
Last updated February 7, 2026 by the Holiday Calendar Team
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Introduction

It's time to show your appreciation for the hardworking individuals that help keep us safe from harm on National Defense Transportation Day, which takes place on the third Friday of May. This day commemorates the dedication and commitment of those in transportation and logistics who play a vital role in national defense. From military personnel to civilian contractors, these brave individuals make sure that our troops have the supplies they need to do their job safely and effectively. It's a chance for us to honor their service and thank them for all they do!

National Defense Transportation Day Timeline

1952
Inception of the Event
National Defense Transportation Day was first established by a Congressional resolution in 1952.
1957
Expansion to a Weeklong Event
By 1957, the event had grown so much in significance that Congress expanded the observance to a week.
1962
Presidential Proclamation
President John F. Kennedy established the third Friday of May as National Defense Transportation Day by proclamation in 1962.
2000
Pentagon's Recognition
The Pentagon began recognizing National Defense Transportation Day to honor those who serve in transportation and logistics supporting the military.
2011
Modern Celebrations
Celebrations in recent years have included ceremonies, motorcades, and exhibits showcasing the importance of transportation in defense.

How to Celebrate National Defense Transportation Day

1

Organize a parade

Organize a parade in your local community to celebrate National Defense Transportation Day. Invite local veterans, military personnel, and transportation companies to march in the parade.

2

Invite speakers

Invite speakers from the transportation industry, military personnel, government officials, and other experts to your celebration. They can give speeches about the importance of defense transportation.

3

Plan a service project

Organize a service project in your local community to honor the contributions of defense transportation workers. This can involve cleaning up roads, painting walls, or planting trees.

4

Hold an awards ceremony

Hold an awards ceremony to recognize and honor individuals who have made outstanding contributions to defense transportation. Invite members of the community, the military, and business leaders.

5

Create a video tribute

Create a video tribute that celebrates the accomplishments of defense transportation workers. Include clips from interviews with workers and military personnel as well as footage of defense transportation vehicles.

Why National Defense Transportation Day is Important

A

It facilitates access to essential supplies

National Defense Transportation Day recognizes the importance of transportation operations in making sure that essential supplies, like food and medical equipment, are able to make it from producers to consumers. Without efficient transport systems, these vital resources would not be readily available.

B

It allows for faster response times in emergencies

Having an organized, well-maintained transportation infrastructure is also essential in ensuring speedy responses to natural disasters or other emergency situations. Being able to quickly move people and personnel, as well as equipment and materials, can help minimize the damage done by these tragedies.

C

It increases public safety

By keeping roads and highways free from congestion and providing safe routes for people to travel on, National Defense Transportation Day helps ensure a higher degree of safety for all travelers. This includes both military personnel and civilians alike, making it even more important to recognize this day.

Holiday Dates

Year
Date
Day
2023
May 19
Friday
2024
May 17
Friday
2025
May 16
Friday
2026
May 15
Friday
2027
May 21
Friday