Steelers Great Rocky Bleier To Help Mark Franklin Park Bicentennial

FRANKLIN PARK, PA — Former Steelers great Rocky Bleier will help the borough with its bicentennial celebration taking place this year. Beleir will be the keynote speaker at the Oct. 20 dedication of the Veterans Trail at the Blueberry Hill Park Activity Center.

Bleier served in the U.S. Infantry in Vietnam and suffered serious wounds that nearly ended his pro football career. He chronicled his experiences in the book "Fighting Back," which was made into a movie.

The trail dedication is among a series of events highlighting Franklin Park's 2023 bicentennial, which include:

The bicentennial edition of the Franklin Park Festival in the Park on June 24, which will feature the River City Brass Band playing patriotic tunes during a fireworks display. The band also will play contemporary tunes. There also will be youth activities, a petting zoo and food trucks.

The Franklin Park Bicentennial 5K Fun Run Sept. 9 at Blueberry Hill Park. Runners and walkers are welcome.

"We are most pleased to present our community a great series of events to mark our bicentennial," Mayor Dennis O'Keefe. "We are really honored to have Rocky Bleier help us with the dedication of the Veterans Trail. All net proceeds from the events will benefit the restoration and maintenance of our historical sites within Franklin Park.."

Tickets for the Veterans Breakfast and the entry fee for the 5K are each $25 and can be purchased online.