Constitution Day and Citizenship Day

Recent legislation requires Federal agencies to provide educational and training materials on the United States Constitution to new hires as part of employee orientation and to each employee annually on September 17th. Previously known as Citizenship Day, that date has been redesignated "Constitution Day and Citizenship Day."

On that date in 1787, the Constitution was adopted. When Constitution Day falls on a weekend, as it does this year, the observance may occur on the previous or following workday. The statute is the Consolidated Appropriations Act 2005, Public Law 108-447, Division J, Title I, Section 111, December 8, 2004.

Civilian Personnel Management Service developed a comprehensive training course and educational materials. Pertinent materials are posted on the OPM web site. Additional materials are also available at little or no cost from the National Constitution Center's new web site, http://www.constitutionday.us/. DoD Components may also wish to observe the day with ceremonies and special programs ¹ .

In celebration of Constitution Day and Citizenship Day, you are encouraged to review the Oath of Office and rededicate yourself during appropriate events. These events may include recognition ceremonies, town halls, and graduation from Army leadership programs.

¹ Excerpts from CPMS Express Article, July 2005