MADISON (WKOW) -- The Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs is celebrating Monday marking the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Navy.

According to Naval History and Heritage Command , before the start of the American Revolution the original colonies had no real Navy force.

They had to rely on trade ships instead.

England however had a much larger and capable naval force, so it didn't take long for the continental congress to realize the need.

On October 13, 1775, the Continental Congress authorized the creation of the Continental Navy.

Monday, the Wisconsin DVA took time to recognize that history and honor all of the sailors involved.

"Days like this are important because they remind us that the freedoms and liberties that we enjoy are fragile and sacred, and they must be defended,

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