George S. Leone

As America prepares for the Semiquincentennial of the Declaration of Independence in 2026, Homecoming 250 Navy Marine Corps believes we should also celebrate the 250th birthdays of the military services that gained and defend our independence. The Navy and Marine Corps were founded on October 13 and November 10, 1775, in Philadelphia, and launched their first missions on the Delaware River. Homecoming 250™ is a 501(c)(3) charity created to bring the celebration of the Navy and Marines’ 250th birthdays to their birthplace. As a result of Homecoming 250’s efforts, the Secretary of the Navy has announced that the Navy and Marine Corps will celebrate their 250th birthdays in Philadelphia and Camden in 2025. The Navy and the Marines held a preparatory Navy and Marine Week in October 2023, highlighted by Homecoming 250’s Navy & Marine Corps Gala at which the Secretary and other military leaders spoke. www.homecoming250.org/secretary-of-the- navys-announcement/. Numerous national and area leaders, organizations, corporations, countless veterans, and other Americans are supporting our efforts. www.homecoming250.org/our-supporting-organizations/. Homecoming 250 is proud to host the Navy and Marine Corps 250th Celebration in Fall 2025. It will be the grand opening of the Semiquincentennial, and likely its largest event honoring our military and veterans.