From June 13–15, the Association of the U.S. Army and its Greater Philadelphia-Penn & Franklin chapter will host a historic celebration of the U.S. Army’s 250th birthday.

The three-day celebration, beginning on June 13, will take place in Philadelphia, the birthplace of the Army and the nation. It is open to the AUSA community, soldiers, veterans, their families and anyone who wishes to gather on Independence Mall and celebrate this significant milestone.

“AUSA is proud to celebrate the Army’s 250th birthday in Philadelphia, where both our nation and our Army were born,” said retired Brig. Gen. Jack Haley, AUSA’s vice president for Membership and Meetings. “It’s truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.”

While national commemorations are scheduled in Washington, D.C., the celebration in Philadelphia offers a unique backdrop to the Army’s milestone anniversary on June 14. Rooted in community partnerships and longstanding relationships, AUSA’s three-day celebration reflects the community’s deep pride in military service.

The weekend-long celebration is packed with events honoring the legacy and service of soldiers from the earliest days of the Continental Army to those serving today. There will be a powerful lineup of events including a parade, an enlistment ceremony for 250 new soldiers, reenactments, concerts, commemorative ceremonies and community tributes—culminating in a grand celebration on Independence Mall, where the American Army’s story began.

Attendees will learn about the Army and its history, as well as those who choose to serve—fulfilling two key AUSA missions, to educate and connect the nation with her Army.

Haley, who served for more than 30 years, said the Army’s milestone hits close to home. “I’m especially grateful for the incredible support of our Greater Philadelphia-Penn & Franklin chapter, which has led the charge in making this celebration possible,” Haley said. “Their dedication and leadership have been integral to this effort and a shining example of what it means to stand with our Army.”

For more information or to participate, visit goarmy250.com.

Follow the celebration @ausapennfranklin and with hashtags #goarmy250 #Army250.

— Maia Tartaglino