Armed Forces Day offers events for all

By SUSANNE KAPPLER, Leader StaffMay 7, 2009

Fort Jackson and the Celebrate Freedom Foundation will team up May 16 to celebrate the 51st annual Armed Forces Day. The event is scheduled from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Hilton Field. An official opening ceremony is set for 11:30 a.m. and will include a battle demonstration by the 187th Ordnance Battalion, a swearing-in ceremony for recruits and a Pass in Review.

An array of exhibits, displays and events are planned for this year's event.

The CFF's living history exhibits will transform Hilton Field into past battle zones. Exhibits are planned on the American Revolution, Buffalo Soldiers, World War I, World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War.

Fort Jackson Soldiers will demonstrate parachute rigging and combat lifesaver skills. In addition, a number of on-post units, organizations and museums will showcase displays and exhibits.

Children will be able to experience a "Mini Basic Combat Training." Other children's activities include camouflage face painting, games and crafts.

Other events planned are weapons displays, rock wall climbing, football toss, laser shot and interactive games and presentations.

Admission and parking are free. Last year, more than 20,000 visitors attended Armed Forces Day.

President Truman consolidated individual service days into Armed Forces Day in 1949. The first Armed Forces Day was celebrated May 20, 1950.

For more information on this year's event, see the insert in next week's Leader.

Susanne.Kappler1@us.army.mil