Tom McNeely (Canadian, B. 1935) "U.S. Soldier" Signed lower right. Original Watercolor on Paper. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This painting was originally published on the Fleetwood Commerative Cover for the U.S. 37+8c Heroes 2001 stamp issued June 7, 2002. The first regular fighting force of the United States was the Continental Army, established by the Second Continental Congress on June 14, 1775, to supplement local militias during the American Revolution. More thoroughly trained and enlisted for longer terms than their minuteman counterparts, the "Continentals" formed the primary force behind the American war effort and were the begining of a regular United States army. Today, the U.S. Army serves as the backbone of the world's most powerful and advanced military force, responsible for the security and defense of the United States. Yet it also performs many other important public services which safeguard and improve the quality of life in America, from assisting in the cleanup of dangerous toxic waste to furnishing helicopters and paramedics for communities lacking adequate funds to maintain their own proper emergency services. The Army also administers numerous federal programs of environmental protection and development and often lends military support to a variety of federal, state and local governmental agencies. In addition , the Army provides lifesaving assistance during the times of natural or man-made disaster, swiftly conducting rescue operations and supplying crucial emergency services to devastated areas with the utmost efficiency and reliability. From California to Kurdistan, the U.S. Military has saved the lives of countless Americans and non-Americans alike with its quick and compassionate responses to catastrophes. Image Size: 12 x 8.5 in. Overall Size: 15 x 11 in. Unframed. (B16996)