ABERDEEN PROVING GROUND, Md. - In less than two weeks Aberdeen Proving Ground will begin Armed Forces Week 2011 celebrations. The annual salute to America's armed services was extended from a one-day to a five-day celebration due to the success of last year and to incorporate members of the community in all aspects.
Festivities include a golf tournament, children's activities, technology displays and much more.
The 2011 theme is Power for Peace.
Aberdeen Proving Ground is a 21st century installation leading the way with its BRAC efforts and its support of the warfighter, said Capt. Malikah McCormick, commander of the APG Garrison's Headquarters and Headquarters Company and lead organizer of the celebration. "As we end one war in Iraq and shift our focus to Afghanistan, we want to show the community and the world that we have the Power for Peace. APG and all of its tenants ensure warfighters have the right capabilities for success across the entire spectrum of operations."
Monday, May 16
The week kicks off with an 18-hole Captain's Choice Tournament at Ruggles Golf Course May 16. Rain date is May 23. Start time is 8:30 a.m. Participants can register as teams or as individuals who will be paired with others. A registrations fee of $70 per golfer includes greens fee, cart fee, continental breakfast, lunch and prizes. Other events include a Hole-in-One contest sponsored by Hinder Ford, Closest to Pin, Long Drive and Straight Drive contests. Registration deadline is May 11. To register or for more information, contact Dave Correll, golf pro, at Ruggles Pro Shop, 410-278-4794 or e-mail david.correll@us.army.mil.
Tuesday, May 17
A Veterans Luncheon commemorating Armed Forces Week will be held 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the Garrison Dining Facility, building 4503 May 17. This event is open to all veterans and free for the first 50 veterans who RSVP. For more information or to RSVP, call 1st Sgt. Sonya Jackson, 410-278-3000 or e-mail sonya.n.jackson@us.army.mil.
Wednesday, May 18
APG encourages both the local and APG Community to come out and join the celebration on Armed Forces Day. On May 18, festivities include a Gold Star Family Breakfast for Family members of fallen service members. The opening ceremony starts at 10 a.m., followed by live demonstrations; aircraft flyovers; Explosive Ordnance Disposal demonstrations; historical re-enactors; technology displays; children's activities; live entertainment and food vendors. The festivities will continue until 5 p.m.
"This event will allow us to reach out to our Gold Star Families, who are very much a part of the APG community," said Annette Sanders of Survivor Outrach Services. "We are, and will remain one-hundred percent committed to them. That commitment is something every Soldier counts on when he puts his fife on the line for his country, and we won't let them down.
"The displays are always a fan-favorite," McCormick added. "It showcases what the installation offers the community and the nation in a fun, hands-on way."
Thursday, May 19
The Harford County Chamber of Commerce hosts its annual Military Appreciation Luncheon at the Richlin Ballroom May 19. The event also honors the Aberdeen Proving Ground Noncommissioned Officer, Soldier and Family of the Year.
Friday, May 20
No planned events.
Saturday, May 21
The week of celebrations culminates Saturday May 21. In the morning, the 3rd Annual Armed Forces Day 10K Race starts at 8 a.m. at the Aberdeen North Athletic Center. Same-day registration starts 6 a.m.
The event is open to the public.
Charm City Run of Bel Air organizes the event which is hosted by Morale, Welfare and Recreation. Registration and entry forms can be accessed through the Charm City Run Web site at www.charmcityrun.com. Entry fees are $30 through May 15 and $35 May 16 through the day of the race.
There is a $5 discount for active duty military. There is no fee for E-1 through E-3; register through your unit. AFD 10K t-shirts will be provided to all runners. Directions to APG can be found at www.apgmwr.com/resources/useful _resources.html. This event is open to the public.
"APG Soldiers, DA civilians and contractors are a vital part of the community," McCormick said.
"This event is coordinated by the Charm City Run of Bel Air and hosted by our Morale, Welfare and Recreation and it's a classic example of the teamwork that allows us to coexist and prosper, side by side."
Pooles Island Lighthouse Lighting Ceremony
In the evening, a relighting of the Pooles Island Lighthouse will take place during a lighthouse cruise on the Spirit of Baltimore, 6 to 11 p.m.
"A lighthouse can serve as our guiding beacon by reminding us to always remember to protect and preserve our past for the benefit of future generations," said Terri Kaltenbacher, a DPW environmental planner.
Boarding will take place 5:30 p.m. For additional information, call 410-838-2020. Note: The event is sold out but people can request standby status in case of a cancellation.
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