Naval Forces Day is observed in Turkmenistan every October 9, celebrating the personnel of the country's naval forces. Established in 2011 at the initiative of Yaylum Berdiew, the Minister of National Security, the first observance took place in 2012. The date commemorates President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedow's working visit to a military unit near the port of Turkmenbashi. The naval forces of Turkmenistan were formed in 2007, with the acquisition of missile boats occurring in 2011, and the first naval exercises conducted in the Caspian Sea in September 2012. On this day, approximately 2,000 servicemen receive congratulations from their relatives and state authorities, recognizing their contributions to national security.