West Chester’s Knights of Columbus Council 1333 hosted a welcome home for the heroes of the Stryker Brigade.  About 40 soldiers showed up for free food and beverages.  It was a great patriotic event and our thanks to the Knights for giving these local troops the kind of return home that they deserve. Patriotism is a core value of the Knights.

Former West Chester Mayor Dick Yoder was there. He’s a proud Marine, standing with Matt, who was a Marine for 4 years and has been in the Army National Guard for about 10 years now.

We are so proud of our Pennsylvania National Guard. Thanks for protecting us 24/7. Thanks for doing the heavy lifting and thanks for joining us at the Knight of Columbus so that we could meet you and show how much we care, not just for who you are, but for successfully completing your noble mission in Iraq.

What a great way to learn about the history of our country.  I never knew that Philadelphia had a huge town hall meeting in October 1773 that ultimately lead to the famous Boston Tea Party two months later.  Almost 500 people attended the historical re-enactment.  The weather was perfect, sunny and mild, and everyone was treated to free hot cocoa, cider, and cookies.  Thanks to the Independence Hall Tea Party Association, for organizing the event.

Dr Benjamin Rush, was a Founding Father and a signer of the Declaration of Independence. He was the key figure in leading the citizens to revolt against the “tea tax” in 1773.  He was born in the Philadelphia area (Byberry) and was a reknowned doctor and scholar. He was only 27-years old when he spoke to the people about why they should revolt against the new tax.

Dom Giordano was perfect as Dr Benjamin Rush. He wore a period costume and was led in a procession by the Whitehall Guard Fife and Drum group.   Benjamin Rush’s leadership at the meeting resulted in the people voting for eight resolutions to fight the unlawful and tyrannical tax.  

We also learned that two weeks after the Boston Tea Party, there was a Tea Party in Philadelphia and 8000 citizens showed up and were able to stop the British from unloading their tea. The British were forced by the Philadelphians to take the tea back to England.

Afterwards, Dom was very gracious mingling with the people and taking pictures. We thank him for all he does for our community at WPHT 1210AM, the Big Talker.

Thanks to Skye for taking the time and effort to preserve the moment on video. Her video is outstanding. You will hear Dom’s speech and learn how this action helped America become a free nation, with liberty and justice where all men could pursue happiness and life.  To see the video on her blog Midnight Blue, click HERE.

Thanks so much to the Independence Hall Tea Party Association, especially Teri and Don Adams for organizing and getting the word out.  It was a huge success and a fun way for us to learn about our country’s first heroes. 

Philadelphia truly is the “Birthplace Of Our Nation”

On December 14, Curt Schroder held a “Kickoff Rally” as he runs for Congress.  The turnout was overwhelming, standing room only.  People filled every table, and 10 more tables were brought out and still the crowd lined the sides and back.  There was lots of food and terrific speakers featuring Colin Hanna, Bob Walker, and more.  Curt’s speech was electrifying, the crowd roared with enthusiasm and delight.  Curt is a champion, he’ll fight for the people, he’ll make government work for the people.  He’s committed to lower taxes, smaller government, and strong national defense. He spends time with the people, he knows us and we know him.  He has the experience, principles, integrity, courage, and values that we need in Washington.

Visit his website to learn more www.vote4curt.com

Dan Sutter is a West Chester University student, he also happens to be in the National Guard and Army ROTC program.  He’s a great young man and he married his highschool sweatheart a few months ago.  He was a finalist for Soldier of the Year.  He loves the way we honor our troops and on his own, made a nice brochure describing us and what we do in West Chester every week.  Thanks Dan!

Paul Eismann works for a graphics company in Philadelphia.  He loves what we do and provided us with a beautiful 10′ x 8′ patriotic mural that we use at dinners and events. His office is a shrine to his favorite American Heroes, among them are his Army father and his brother who was an Army paratrooper.  He also has mememtos of troops, George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, Ronald Reagan, George Bush, Sarah Palin, and Revolutionary Soldiers. He has a 15′ Statue of Liberty in his backyard.  Paul is, without a doubt, one of the most patriotic people in the country.

Paul has sent 3 murals (10′ x 8′) to the troops in Iraq and Afghanistan.  He had them signed by firemen, police, patriots, and celebrities. He got a 2nd job to help pay his expenses.  He says, “Its the least I can do for them”.  Thanks for all you do for our troops Paul, you are a true friend and great patriot.