Central Bucks Students Participate In 250th Anniversary Of The U.S. Armed Forces

DOYLESTOWN, PA — Students from the History Club and the STEM Enrichment Group at Tohickon Middle School traveled to Penn's Landing in Philadelphia on Oct. 11 to participate in the 250th anniversary celebration of the United States Navy and the United States Army.

At the event, the STEM Group competed against students from several East Coast school districts that challenged them with designing solutions to real-world problems faced by the Navy.

Seventh and eighth graders participated in the middle school competition, while the ninth graders joined the high school competition. Students also delivered a formal presentation of their ideas to several U.S. Naval officers who were in attendance.

By the end of their visit, three of Tohickon's competing groups were recognized for their sportsmanship, creativity, and innovation.

The Tohickon Middle School STEM Team at Penn's Landing. (Central Bucks School District)

Central Bucks STEM students are recognized during a ceremony at Penn's Landing. (Central Bucks School District)

(Central Bucks School District)

Central Bucks students aboard the USS Cooperstown. (Central Bucks School District)

Students from the History Club returned to Penn's Landing on Oct. 13 where they joined with students from CB East and CB West for a tour of the USS Cooperstown, USS Arlington, the USS Lassen and to interview members of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps. The interviews will be included in the upcoming National Sea Service Film Festival to be held on Nov. 13 at the Library of Congress.

The student interview teams were greeted warmly by countless officers as they toured each ship and recorded interviews with service members just beginning their careers as well as those who have risen in rank, including an admiral.

During the field trip, 21 students learned what skills and responsibilities are necessary to work collaboratively aboard the ships. The event also provided them with a unique opportunity to participate in living history experiences and to document the anniversary for current and future generations.