May is the month when we honor our Armed Forces members who have made the ultimate sacrifice while defending our freedoms on Memorial Day. Additionally, it is the month, when the “Poppy” is distributed to remind us of the sacrifices of all our service personnel, especially those who are disabled. However, on May 17, which the U.S. Government has designated as “Armed Forces Day” we take time to honor all our Armed Forces, past and present. What better way to honor them then by hosting an outdoor party!

All current and past members of the Armed Forces and their families from our area are invited to join us in downtown Charles Town, along Lawrence St. from 1 to 5 p.m. for a celebration honoring their service!

Since the Revolutionary War, the U.S. Armed Forces have protected and perpetuated the American principles of Freedom and Equality for all, and at times without the support of the American people! Post 71 American Legion Family and Post 3522 VFW Family, in partnership with the City of Charles Town are proud to be hosting this event again this year to say ‘thank you’ to all who have served and those who are continuing to serve from our community.

Sponsors are proud to be able to have The US Army, 3rd Infantry Regiment – Old Guard Fife & Drum Corps, as the featured entertainment for the event. The Old Guard Fife & Drum Corps is the only unit of its kind in the armed forces recalling the days of the American Revolution as they parade in uniforms patterned after those worn by musicians of our Continental Army. The crisp drill and patriotic music of The Old Guard FDC provides a tangible demonstration of the US Army’s dedication, discipline, and precision to the Nation and the World. The unit, created in 1960, is assigned to the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard), at Fort Myer, Va. They travel extensively as an official representative of the US Army, and average nearly 500 performances annually. They are the guardian of the nation’s Capital and official escort to the President.

There will also be a performance by the Patrick Henry Mountaineer Fife & Drum Corps, a music program of the Jackson-Perks American Legion Family. Patrick Henry Mountaineer Fife & Drum Corps will perform a repertoire of patriotic and historic folk music of America. The Patrick Henry Mountaineer (PHM) Fife & Drum Corps (FDC) is a family-oriented program. The program is designed to promote the study of both music and history. Its purpose is to enhance the American Legion Family’s goal of honoring those who serve by enhancing the lives of veterans, military and their families through music. This program advocates for veterans, educates the citizenry, mentors youth and promotes patriotism in a celebration of music, the universal language. The program was established in the fall, 2012 and this will be their debut performance.

In addition to the outdoor activities planned for the day, VFW 3522 will host an “All-U-Can-Eat” Shrimp Feed from 3 to 6 p.m. at their Post home located at 116 E. Liberty St. Tickets are $20 per person and can be obtained at the Post home.

Following the day’s activities, Jackson-Perks Post 71 invites all to continue the fun that evening with DJ Chris starting at 7 p.m.

For additional information, contact Event Coordinator, Anne Quinn via Email at AmerLegAux71@gmail.com or via phone 304-725-7909.