APG celebrates Army birthday with June 14 festivities

By Adriane Foss, APG NewsJune 11, 2012

ABERDEEN PROVING GROUND, Md. - The community is invited to join in a variety of celebrations in honor of the Army's 237th birthday at Aberdeen Proving Ground June 14.

The day's events will kick off with the traditional birthday run at 6 a.m. Soldiers, Family members, retirees and civilians will gather at Fanshaw Field, where they will begin a 3.2 mile course along Aberdeen Boulevard.

"This is an early morning event, but it's going to be a lot of fun," said HHC Commander Capt. Maritzabel Mustafaa. "In addition to getting in some good cardio exercise, there is a real camaraderie that participants enjoy."

Mustafaa said the most motivated units will be awarded streamers immediately after the run by the installation commanding general.

Participants will again be among the thousands who will mark the start of the annual celebratios at military installations across the globe.

"It's more than a simple birthday event. It's a salute to our branch of service, which has successfully defended our nation for 237 years. And it's a salute to the men and women who have committed, even given their lives, for what our Army stands for."

Mustafaa said she's hoping for a good turnout at the run, but those who are not early risers can join the festivities at 10 a.m. at Fanshaw, where military reenactors will play out the Army's story from its origin to present day. The reenactment will be performed to dramatic music provided by Fort Meade's U.S. Army Field Band.

"The Field Band is an internationally acclaimed group that has played in all 50 states and in more than 30 countries," said Mustafaa. "They have been the premier musical reps for our military for more than 60 years and include some of America's best musical talent."

An 11:30 a.m. cake cutting ceremony and Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation-hosted barbecue is also set at Fanshaw Field after the Army Birthday events. Hot dogs, hamburgers, baked chicken, cold salads, chips and drinks will be served. Senior Installation and CECOM Commander Maj. Gen. Robert Ferrell will conduct the cake cutting, along with the installation's youngest Soldier. Award presentations during the barbecue will honor Soldiers and community members who have made significant contributions to the APG community.

"I've celebrated the Army birthday with different units at different bases all over the world, and it never gets old," said Mustafaa. "This is something I want to be a part of, and I believe the APG community feels the same. It's a unique opportunity to honor our nation's military while having a really good time."

UPCOMING EVENTS

July 26

Team APG is also hosting an Olympic Sports Day at various locations on post July 26.

The day is set aside for garrison and tenant organizations to strengthen partnerships and build camaraderie while participating in competitive sports.

Scored events include softball, kickball, volleyball, flag football, 3 on 3 basketball, two-mile race and golf skills. Events will take place at APG North's Shore Park, multiple softball fields, the recreation center and gym.

Food will be provided, and awards will be presented for each event as well as overall winner.

The event is open to all APG employees. Although mission will dictate participation, the Olympic Sport Day will be considered the place of duty for Soldiers and Department of the Army civilians. Contractors are required to take leave to participate.

The uniform will be civilian casual for observers and civilian sports for participants.

Senior Installation and CECOM Commander Maj. Gen. Robert Ferrell, with Command Sgt. Maj. Kenneth Dent, will be the guest speaker.

Read the APG News and Facebook for updates.

Sept. 30

The community is invited to an Oktoberfest Sept. 27-30 at the APG North Shine Sports Field.

A traditional German keg tapping will commence the four-day German-inspired celebration.

"This event is open to service members, civilians both on and off post, Families, Retirees, and guests," said Mike Lupacchino, director of the installation's Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation. "We will also be working closely with our neighboring city leaders to identify specific days that will be themed for specific cities throughout Harford County."

Attendees can enjoy German beer, food and music, along with carnival rides and activities.

Other events will include a Volksmarch (fitness walk), car show, craft market, sports on big screen TVs and gospel brunch.

Read the APG News and Facebook for updates. For information, call Earlene Allen at 410-278-3854.