Historically minded Americans tend to think of redcoats and
muskets when musing over the military aspect of Independence Day.
But, in Morgan Hill this July 4th, another war will be evident.
Historically minded Americans tend to think of redcoats and muskets when musing over the military aspect of Independence Day. But, in Morgan Hill this July 4th, another war will be evident.
Members of a historical group will set up a World War II period encampment near the duck pond at Community Park. The encampment will display the reality and basic life of a field camp and also give local children a taste of military drill. The camp is free to everyone who stops by from 12:30 p.m. to dusk.
The members of the California Commemorative Historical Society portray soldiers of the 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment of the 82nd Airborne division through public events, educational activities and re-enactments.
Members will be on hand to answer any and all questions and will provide information on equipment and field life as well as provide a first person impression of members of the 82nd Airborne Parachute Infantry Regiment.
The unit will provide drill instruction for children throughout the day, teaching them marching tactics and having them participate in mock drill formation.
Visitors can also see a veteran Indian 741 motorcycle that has been faithfully kept in its original WWII OD (olive drab) color scheme. This motorcycle was used by American armed forces while stationed in the United Kingdom (Great Britain) for military police duty and for dispatching messages between units and command.
The CHS exists to educate the public, especially younger generations, in the life and times of the period between 1939 and 1945 and to honor and thank those who contributed in any way during the war.
Other wars will be remembered at the Patriotic Sing, 6-7 p.m. Saturday at the Britton Middle School gym where a Wall of Honor can be appreciated. The Wall will consist of pictures, posters and other memorabilia of military service up to and including Iraq.
The World War II encampment is part of the afternoon-long Family Festival in the Park, following the Fourth of July Parade and offering rides for children, live music, a diaper derby, pie eating contest, arts and crafts booths and lots of food and drink. Families are encouraged to bring picnics and enjoy the day, then stay to watch the spectacular display of fireworks at dark.
All events are free except the KidZone ($5 for a day pass), food and drink bought at the park. All proceeds go to pay for the parade and fireworks and all events are sponsored by Independence Day, Inc. and co-sponsored by the City of Morgan Hill.
Community Park, West Edmundson Avenue, west of Monterey Road. Festival 12:30-7 p.m. Fireworks at dark.
Details at www.mhidi.com and http://chs82nd.homestead.com/505PIR.html
