US Army Celebrates 250 Year Birthday In Philadelphia
by Alex Lloyd Gross
The United States Army celebrated their 250 year birthday in Philadelphia this weekend and in Valley Forge Pa. While the events in Valley Forge featured and invitation only dinner , there was not much for the public to see and do. Folks had to come to the historic area in Philly for that.
From Arch Street to Chestnut Street, on the grounds of Independence Mall, people could see static displays of what the Army is doing. They could climb on an anti aircraft gun, take a tour of the Wreaths Across America trailer, or maybe even climb into a helicopter in front of the National Constitution Center.
The helicopter was made by Leonardo, which is a defense contractor in northeast Philadelphia. This one is a model and gets trucked in. It has no engine so there is no danger of anyone doing any damage by pushing buttons or turning switches. Getting into and out of the chopper was challenging for some.
In front of Independence Hall, there was a robot that is used to diffuse explosives. The USO had a display as well.
Alex Lloyd Gross Mayor Cherelle Parker was with Betsy Ross and George Washington
Major General John Pippy was one of the guest speakers in front of The Independence Visitors Center. He is the Adjunct General for Pennsylvania. The programs featured a show by the US Army Band as well as a procession of Army Vehicles.
A slight rain kept some people away, but about 300 showed up to hear the remarks made. Kids do not want to sit for boring speeches. They want to do things. Anyone giving any speech is boring when you are a kid. So across the street they went, to try to pass an Army Physical Test. They could also try their hand at lifting free weights. The heavier it was, the more the tiny diamond plated bar dug into your hand, making it harder. Most people could do 110 pounds, a few went to 200 .
Alex Lloyd Gross Photo-Delaware Valley News.com An Anti Aircraft Gun was on display in the historic district.
The event concludes in Philadelphia later today.