Armed Forces Day Open House 2008                 Chris Rasmussen        Leader Staff

Thousands streamed onto Fort Jackson Saturday to show their appreciation for the military and celebrate the 50th anniversary of Armed Forces Day. Held in conjunction with the Thunder at Fort Jackson air show, an estimated 22,500 turned out for the all-day event that featured static military displays, the Golden Knights Parachute Team, living history exhibits and plenty of hands-on fun for children and adults. “I thought Fort Jackson did a great job by expanding the MILES blank firing range from last year,” said Ken Breivik, a spokesman for the Celebrate Freedom Foundation, which sponsored the air show and several historical military displays. “I saw kids doing it all the way through World War II veterans.” Robin Bacon, of Columbia said he brought his 10-year-old daughter and her best friend to the event to educate them about the armed forces and the sacrifices its members have made to keep this country safe and free. “I want them to appreciate how important this is and the significance of what these guys and gals do,” Bacon said. “This has been a really great event. The Army does a good job of promoting itself.” The event commenced with the 187th Ordnance Battalion Opening Ceremony that included the swearing in of 200 recruits by Brig. Gen. James H. Schwitters, Fort Jackson commanding general. Shortly after the ceremony, Old Glory was brought down to Hilton Field by Staff Sgt. John Young, 507th Parachute Infantry Regiment “Silver Wings.” Spectators were also treated to a concert by country band Crossin Dixon, a USO-type show, and tours of the installation. “My son is always playing with toy soldiers, so he is in heaven right now,” said Terry Haley, of Columbia. “He has been on every Jeep and tank out here.” Armed Forces Day was created on Aug. 31, 1949, at the prompting of President Harry Truman as a single holiday for citizens to come together and thank military members for their patriotic service in support of America. The holiday replaced separate Army, Navy Marine Corps and Air Force Days. The single-day celebration stemmed from the unification of the Armed Forces under one department –– the Department of Defense.