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United States Submarine Veterans

Mid-Atlantic Base

Separation Day

Separation Day Speaker

On June 15, 1776, the Delaware General Assembly passed a resolution stating that Delaware, now fighting in the American Revolution, was declaring its independence from Great Britain. Less than three weeks later, Caesar Rodney, the Speaker of the Assembly, rode 80 miles in one night to arrive in Philadelphia by July 2nd. There, he voted for independence from England and signed the Declaration of Independence.

Firing the cannon at Battery Park

Previously, the three counties of Delaware were known as the "Three Lower Counties on Delaware". Ownership of the counties was disputed for over a century by the Penn family of Pennsylvania and the Calvert Family of Maryland. With the passing of the resolution, the colony of Delaware severed all ties with the Penn and Calvert families and became a free state. The Separation Day Festival, held annually on the first Saturday in June, celebrates Delaware's freedom.

Courtney Purdy, Miss Delaware USA 2004Planned activities for the day include a morning parade at 11:00 A.M. along Delaware Street. The parade features marching bands, performers, State and local officials, and an invited Grand Marshall. Past parade performers have included everything from Mummer String Bands to Philadelphia Eagles Cheerleaders. Festivities continue in Battery Park after the parade including arts and crafts booths, entertainment, food vendors, encampments, and information booths.

Mid-Atlantic Base Chief of the Boat Chuck Walker

Afternoon activities include karate demonstration, characters, children’s activities, music, encampments, clowns, pony rides, a regatta along the river, and a beautiful baby contest. Evening festivities kick off at 5:00 P.M. with live music from area performers and concerts at 5:30 and 7:30 P.M. leading up to the grand finale of fireworks at 9:30 P.M.

Fifes and Drums marchingThe event is sponsored by the State of Delaware through the Separation Day Committee. Shuttle Bus service is provided by Lehanes Bus Company to and from parking areas at First Baptist Academy, New Castle Middle School, and Carrie Downie School. Parking for event participants is provided near Battery Park.

Mid-Atlantic Base has been attending the event since 2002, with an information booth and sales of patriotic and submarine-related merchandise.