FOLEY – The City of Foley will begin its recognition of the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution on Saturday, April 19, with a special ceremony commemorating the Battle of Lexington — the historic opening clash of the Revolutionary War.
At its April 8 meeting, the Foley City Council issued an official proclamation recognizing this milestone in American history. Mayor Ralph Hellmich expressed appreciation for the local organizations leading the commemoration.
“The City of Foley commends the efforts of the Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) and the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) to honor the anniversary of this pivotal event,” Mayor Hellmich said as he read the proclamation. “We also support and commend their ongoing work to educate the public about the principles of freedom and self-government that inspired the Revolution.”
The public is invited to attend the commemorative events taking place on April 19. A flagpole ceremony will be held at 3 p.m. at the Veterans Memorial in John B. Foley Park. The event will feature historical reenactors in colonial attire and the presentation of a 13-star American flag, which will be flown in honor of the occasion.
“We’re excited to share this moment with the community,” said James Corum of the SAR. “This ceremony pays tribute to a defining moment in our nation’s founding — when ordinary citizens stood against overwhelming odds to defend their rights and liberties.”
Following the outdoor ceremony, a presentation will take place at 4 p.m. at the Foley Public Library.
The Battle of Lexington, fought on April 19, 1775, marked the beginning of armed conflict between colonial militia and British troops. A small force of about 86 militiamen stood against 700 British soldiers, resulting in the deaths of eight colonists. The British troops later engaged militia forces again at Concord before retreating to Boston — the first steps on the path to American independence.