Why Army and Marine Corps Artillery Celebrate Saint Barbara's Day

Since her veneration years after her death, the name of Saint Barbara was used to pray for protection against getting struck by lightning, in addition to sudden death by explosions or fires. Gunners in the 17th century adopted Saint Barbara, because their cannons were less than reliable -- not a bad idea when working with a new technology that might explode in your face. That military tradition extended to the new United States, which celebrates Saint Barbara today. Marines, soldiers and civilian supporters "demonstrating a degree of professional competence and contributions to the promotion of the artillery branch" are awarded the Order of Saint Barbara by the Honorable Order of Saint Barbara, a panel made up of previous recipients.