by Alex Lloyd Gross
Just before 9:00 AM today,the entire student body of Bensalem High School showed up on a field in back of the school, to watch the US Navy and Marines land four helicopters. The purpose was twofold. To help students recruit into the Armed Forces and to celebrate the 250th Birthday of the Navy and Marines.
A few minutes after landing the students gathered around the choppers for tours and selfies. They talked with the servicemen and women about the aircraft. It was a day filled with anticipation. Even if a student has no interest in the Armed Forces, the chopper landings and tour were cool.
Byberry Road was blocked, people came out of nearby businesses to watch and see what was going on. Many filmed it, some stuck around for the better part of an hour. It’s not everyday this happens. In addition to the four helicopters, the Second Division Marine Band played for about 20 minutes.
This short concert, drew the students away from the choppers as they sat on the grass field to watch them play. The Navy showed off ballistic jackets and other cool toys they have. The Marines were giving out t shirts if someone could do 20 pull ups. Both had literature on how to sign up.
Alex Lloyd Gross Photo-Delaware Valley News.com
Mayor Joe and Bill McVey, Director Of Public Safety for Bensalem get a VIP tour of a Marine Helicopter.
You need to have asocial security number and pass the physical. If you cannot pass, there are classes that will get you in shape to go into basic training. Many high schools have a JR ROTC program, and colleges as well. Students who pass that go into the service as officers.
Mayor Joe Digirolamo was given a VIP tour of the aircraft, but he did not go inside. Many students did and they could not stop taking photos of themselves with the aircraft for social media. The areas around the information tables were crowded with students asking questions and taking pamphlets.
This event lasted about 90 minutes. Then the choppers took off. One stayed behind, a Navy chopper, due to maintenance issues. They will visit schools in West Philly, Northeast and Lincoln and Central Bucks as part of the 250th birthday.