U.S. Air Force Day
U.S. Air Force Day is celebrated annually on September 18th to commemorate the creation of the United States Air Force as a separate branch of the U.S. military. It honors the history, achievements, and service of the men and women who have served in the Air Force. U.S. Air Force Day highlights the dedication, innovation, and achievements of one of the most powerful air forces in the world.
Rice Krispie Treat Day
Rice Krispie Treat Day is celebrated annually on September 18th to honor the delicious, no-bake dessert made from Rice Krispies cereal, melted marshmallows, and butter. These treats are known for their crispy texture and sweet, gooey flavor. Rice Krispie Treat Day is a fun way to enjoy a nostalgic dessert while inspiring creativity in the kitchen!
Here are some notable historical events that occurred on September 18:
Significant Historical Events:
U.S. Air Force Established (1947):
On September 18, 1947, the United States Air Force was officially established as a separate branch of the U.S. military, following the National Security Act of 1947. This separation from the Army Air Forces allowed the Air Force to focus on air power and defense.
First National Park in the U.S. (1872):
The establishment of Yellowstone National Park was signed into law on March 1, 1872, but the park officially opened to the public on September 18, 1872. It became the first national park in the U.S. and is often considered the first national park in the world.
Hurricane Katrina (2005):
On September 18, 2005, Hurricane Katrina was reported as one of the deadliest hurricanes in U.S. history. The storm devastated parts of the Gulf Coast, particularly New Orleans, Louisiana. The aftermath of Katrina led to widespread discussions on emergency preparedness and disaster response.
The First National Football League (NFL) Game (1920):
The first game of what would become the NFL was played on September 18, 1920, when the Arizona Cardinals faced the Chicago Bears. This marked the beginning of professional football as we know it today.
The First College Football Game (1869):
The first intercollegiate football game was played on September 18, 1869, between Princeton University and Rutgers University in New Brunswick, New Jersey. This game laid the groundwork for the development of college football in the United States.
Tobacco Advertising Ban (1971):
On September 18, 1971, the U.S. government banned cigarette advertisements on television and radio, marking a significant shift in public health policy and the regulation of tobacco products.
Significant Birthdays:
Jean-Claude Van Damme (1960–Present):
A Belgian actor, martial artist, and film producer, Van Damme is best known for his roles in action films like Bloodsport, Universal Soldier, and Timecop. He is often referred to as “The Muscles from Brussels.”
Jesse James (1847–1882):
An infamous American outlaw and bank robber, Jesse James became a legendary figure of the American Old West, known for his daring robberies and his role as a folk hero during and after the Civil War.
Brad Bird (1957–Present):
An American film director and screenwriter, Bird is known for his work in animated films, including The Incredibles, Ratatouille, and The Iron Giant. He has received multiple Academy Awards for his contributions to animation.
Aubrey Plaza (1984–Present):
An American actress and comedian, Plaza is best known for her role as April Ludgate on the television series Parks and Recreation and for her performances in films like Safety Not Guaranteed and The Little Hours.
Mickey Rourke (1952–Present):
An American actor and former professional boxer, Rourke gained fame in the 1980s for his roles in films like 9½ Weeks and The Wrestler, for which he received an Academy Award nomination.
Lance Armstrong (1971–Present):
An American former professional road racing cyclist, Armstrong is known for winning the Tour de France seven times. His legacy has been complicated by his later admission to doping.
Kerry Washington (1977–Present):
An American actress and producer, Washington is best known for her role as Olivia Pope on the television series Scandal and has appeared in films like Django Unchained and The Last King of Scotland.
Significant Deaths:
H.G. Wells (1866–1946):
An influential British author, Wells is best known for his works in science fiction, including The War of the Worlds, The Time Machine, and The Invisible Man. His writing often explored themes of science, technology, and social issues.
Franklin Pierce (1804–1869):
The 14th President of the United States, Franklin Pierce served from 1853 to 1857. His presidency is often criticized for his inability to address the growing tensions leading to the Civil War.
James Van Der Zee (1886–1983):
An influential American photographer known for his portraits of the Harlem Renaissance. His work documented African American life and culture in Harlem during the early 20th century.
John L. Lewis (1880–1969):
A prominent American labor leader and president of the United Mine Workers of America, Lewis was instrumental in organizing workers and advocating for labor rights throughout the early to mid-20th century.
Jules Feiffer (1929–Present) (Note: This name is included mistakenly; he is still alive):
American cartoonist, playwright, and author known for his work in comics and theater, particularly for his Pulitzer Prize-winning editorial cartoons.
Shirley Temple (1928–2014):
The beloved American actress and diplomat, famous as a child star in the 1930s for her roles in films like Bright Eyes and Curly Top. Temple later served as a U.S. ambassador to Ghana and Czechoslovakia.
David McCullough (1933–2022):
An acclaimed American historian and author, McCullough wrote biographies of significant figures, including John Adams and Harry S. Truman, and received two Pulitzer Prizes for his work.
