Empire State Review Contributor 
The National Archives commemorated Independence Day with a tribute to the 250th anniversaries of the U.S. Army, Navy, and Marine Corps. The event featured historical reenactments, military band performances, and a reading of the Declaration of Independence.
The celebration commenced at 10:00 a.m. on the steps of the National Archives Building along Constitution Avenue. Attendees were treated to a ceremonial reading of the Declaration of Independence by reenactors portraying historical figures, including Abigail Adams and Benjamin Franklin. This tradition, upheld for over five decades, serves as a poignant reminder of the nation’s founding principles.
A highlight of the day’s festivities was the salute to the 250th anniversaries of the U.S. Army, Navy, and Marine Corps. Established in 1775, these military branches have played pivotal roles in the nation’s history. The event featured performances by military bands and remarks from Commander Everett Alvarez Jr., a distinguished naval aviator and one of the longest-held American prisoners of war during the Vietnam War.
Jim Byron, Senior Advisor to the Acting Archivist of the United States, emphasized the significance of the occasion, stating, “On behalf of the Acting Archivist of the United States, I invite those gathered in our Nation’s Capital to begin their Fourth of July holiday at the National Archives, a right and fitting place to celebrate and reflect on the history of our great country, all of which is preserved forever in the National Archives.”
The National Archives Museum extended its hours from July 3 to July 5, allowing visitors to view the original Declaration of Independence, the U.S. Constitution, and the Bill of Rights. Timed entry tickets were encouraged but not required.
This event is part of the broader America250 initiative, a series of nationwide commemorations leading up to the 250th anniversary of the United States in 2026. The initiative aims to honor the nation’s history and inspire civic engagement among Americans.
