America’s 250th birthday celebrated at Fort Hamilton
The day included aerial demonstrations over the harbor, the parade of ships and community engagement as the city marked America’s 250th birthday. Photo: Richard Mayfield
BAY RIDGE — Brooklynites who live along the harbor waterfront celebrated America’s 250th birthday during the Fourth of July weekend as tall ships entered New York Harbor under the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge and military planes flew overhead.
Fort Hamilton Army Base held its Independence Day Celebration, which included remarks, viewing of the ships and aircraft, music, food and rides.
Cannon salutes began at 9 a.m. as ships passed the harbor, followed by aircraft at 10 a.m.
The U.S. Navy amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge enters New York Harbor and passes under the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge as it sails past the U.S. Army Garrison Fort Hamilton. Photo: Mark Getman/Fort Hamilton Public Affairs/U.S. Army
“Today, we stand on historic grounds,” U.S. Army Garrison Fort Hamilton Commander Col. Melissa Cantwell said during her remarks. “For generations, soldiers have watched over this harbor, safeguarding the ideals of freedom and democracy.”
“It’s an honor to continue that legacy today by welcoming this parade of ships from around the world,” she continued. “As we fire the cannons and honor the nations and crews sailing by, our actions reflect the spirit of winning, preserving and celebrating independence.”
During remarks, Sonia Valentin, president of the 62nd Precinct Community Council, and Ilene Sacco, president of the 68th Precinct Community Council, received the Fort Hamilton Good Neighbor Award. The honor recognizes private citizens whose exceptional service has strengthened the relationship between Fort Hamilton and the surrounding community.
A fleet of tall ships from more than 20 nations, each a symbol of tradition, adventure and international goodwill, were part of the Sail4th 250 Parade of Tall Ships
“History was made on July 4 as millions watched across the world to celebrate America’s 250th birthday in unforgettable fashion,” wrote Sail4th 250. “From the International Naval Review and the breathtaking International Aerial Review to the spectacular Parade of Sail featuring majestic Tall Ships from around the world, every moment showcased the spirit, history and future of our nation.”
“To everyone who joined us in person, on the water, online and behind the scenes, thank you. Your enthusiasm, support and patriotic spirit helped make Sail4th 250 a once-in-a-generation celebration,” continued the statement.
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries spoke and presented a proclamation to commemorate the anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
“Whereas in support of so many allied nations, navies and coast guards in commemorating our nation’s founding, their support in our gathering here at Fort Hamilton reflects the global reach of the values declared by our founders in 1776, including that we hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equally and are endowed by their creator with certain unalienable rights and amongst these are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness,” he said.
Other elected officials were in attendance and spoke.
“It was an honor to join the community at the Fort Hamilton Army Garrison for America’s 250th birthday celebration,” said Assemblymember Alec Brook-Krasny. “We watched the tall ships enter New York Harbor under the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge and enjoyed the military planes overhead. Thank you, Commanding Officer Col. Misty Cantwell and the Fort Hamilton Garrison. God bless the United States of America and our amazing military.”
“We are with our service members, with their families, with the community,” said U.S. Rep. Nicole Malliotakis. “They’ve generously opened the gates today so people can watch the sail naval fleet coming through the harbor. It’s a beautiful, spectacular day, and I hope everyone’s enjoying America’s 250th birthday.”
Ships started sailing along New York Harbor July 1 as soldiers from Joint Task Force Empire Shield and the U.S. Army New York City Recruiting Battalion fired a cannon salute toward the USS Kearsarge.
The Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge also had an American flag raised by the MTA to mark the occasion.
SUNSET PARK — “As a resident of Marine Park, one of the great surprises I found biking around Industry City and visiting Japan Village was to discover Bush Terminal Park. I continue to be amazed at the serene hideaways that the city offers in some of the busiest places — and, still, with an iconic view.”
BROOKLYN HEIGHTS — ‘A miracle that no one was killed …’ That’s what neighbors are saying about the collapse of the Hotel St. George marquee. Shown in this photograph are workmen beginning the removal and repair of the historic, old neon sign at the corner, referencing a relic of Brooklyn Heights’ past: the St. George Hotel.
ATLANTIC AVENUE — Exhausted shopper with cluster of bags and goods from mall at Boerum Place stops to look at huge construction site across the street. “Is that REALLY going to be a jail??” Her male companion is reassuring, “Nothing like Rikers … this is 21st Century.”
BROOKLYN HEIGHTS — Overheard in line at one of most popular pastry outlets on Montague Street: “Hope I can get them into a camp …” A mother with two pre-schoolers in tow was showing a friend the Dodge Y flyer for Healthy Kids Day on Saturday, April 18.
