Military helicopters land in Waikiki to celebrate Army’s 251st birthday

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) — Soldiers and community members celebrated the Army’s 251st birthday Friday on the grounds of Fort DeRussy in Waikiki.

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Army Community Day gave community members a chance to explore displays of tactical vehicles, combat aircraft, drones, and other Army systems.

The 25th Infantry Division’s Combat Aviation Brigade landed Black Hawk and Apache helicopters on Kuroda Field, making the aircraft available for public display.

Sgt. Maj. Andrew Porch, the senior enlisted advisor for USARPAC Public Affairs, said it takes extensive coordination to make events like this happen.

“It starts months in advance, working with the community, working with local emergency services, and putting out information so as many people as possible can know that it’s going to happen,” Porch said.

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Porch has served for 23 years, and this is his second time stationed in Hawaii.

“We’re a part of the community, so getting the chance to get out and interact with them and tell our story, and just listen to them and see what they know, to bridge that military-civilian divide is crucial,” Porch said.

In addition to military displays, the 25th Infantry Division’s Tropic Lightning Band provided a backdrop of festive music.

The event also featured an official swearing-in of future soldiers, displays from veteran organizations, food trucks, and free admission to the U.S. Army Museum.

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