USS Cooperstown, LCS 23
Visitphilly.com announced that Philadelphia will host the landmark “Homecoming 250” events honoring the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps – two military branches founded here in 1775 – just ahead of the nation’s 250th birthday.
“In 1775, America’s founders convened in Philadelphia to establish the military forces that would fight for and win the nation’s independence. In 2025, the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps will return to their birthplace to mark 250 years of service with Homecoming 250 - a six-week celebration of military history and legacy, set against the historic backdrop of the city where it all began.”
Visit Philadelphia stated that running October 9 through November 10, 2025, “Homecoming 250” will feature parades on land and water, a veterans’ picnic, formal galas, military flyovers, a documentary film screening, patriotic concerts and citywide activations in permanent sites retelling the story of the armed forces in the United States of America.
“Whether you’ve proudly worn the uniform or respect those who have, Philadelphia is the place to be to explore Philadelphia’s Rich Military History,” Visit Philadelphia stated.
“On October 13, 1775, the Second Continental Congress gathered in Philadelphia’s Pennsylvania State House (now Independence Hall) and agreed to supply General George Washington with an armed schooner and sloop, thereby establishing the Continental Navy. One month later, on November 10, 1775, the same Congress resolved to create the Continental Marines, which would land troops to work in concert with their naval counterparts, later becoming the U.S. Marines.
“Philadelphia’s status as a naval powerhouse was cemented with the founding of the Philadelphia Navy Yard, the country’s first, in 1762. Throughout the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812, Philadelphia, with its vast port, served as a major hub of recruitment, supply and manufacturing. Although little wartime or military activity takes place in Philadelphia today, the city and region are integral to the story of the people who fought “on land and sea” to establish the nation.”
Homecoming 250 in Philadelphia Homecoming 250 officially begins on October 9, 2025, with a spectacular parade of ships along the Delaware that will culminate in an opening ceremony and formal blessing of the Fleet. For this occasion, watch parties are planned for Philadelphia’s Navy Yard and historic Penn’s Landing, along with historic Fort Mercer and the Camden Riverfront, both in New Jersey.
October 9 through October 16, look for: Ship tours of the Battleship New Jersey, Cruiser Olympia, Submarine Becuna, Navy and Coast Guard vessels, plus Revolutionary-era ships, including Marine ships.
There will also be free performances of the United States Navy Band, USMC Band and Marine Corps Silent Drill Platoon on Independence Mall and elsewhere.
Note: The attached photo is of the USS Cooperstown, LCS 23, a Littoral (close to shore) Combat Ship that will allow tours while berthed at Penns Landing from October 10-15, between the hours 10 am to 4 pm.
