Spirit of Liberty Foundation kicks off America’s 250th at the San Diego Air & Space Museum

Patriotism and a birthday cake as big as the nation’s heritage marked the debut of Celebrate America 250!, the annual celebration of the 250th anniversary of the United States, on Monday at the San Diego Air and Space Museum.

The event, hosted by the Spirit of Liberty Foundation of Rancho Santa Fe, included a backdrop of a reproduction of John Trumbull’s famous painting of the signing of the Declaration of Independence and a 20-foot inflatable “Heart of America” ​​balloon honoring everyday heroes.

The ceremony included remarks from a reenactor of General George Washington and a speech from San Diego State University history professor Edward Blum, who introduced the new George Washington Medal of Freedom.

“America’s 250th anniversary is important, but without the leadership of George Washington, and the Continental Army and the Patriots who defeated the then largest army in the world – England – there would be no American Declaration of Independence,” said Richard Rovsek, president of the Spirit of Liberty Foundation. “We thank our armed forces from 1776 to today for keeping America and the world free!”

Attendees witnessed the ringing of America’s Freedom Bell, which contains bronze and steel salvaged from the Sept. 11 Twin Towers, organizers said.

A military chaplain blessed the three-tiered American birthday cake decorated with portraits of the founding fathers, featuring a bald eagle. The Sons and Daughters of the American Revolution cut the cake, while Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts served it to attendees.

“Celebrating America on its 250th anniversary is absolutely critical to remembering our excellence as a nation,” said Jim Kidrick, president and CEO of the San Diego Air & Space Museum. “Our past and our future depend on fulfilling the precepts and purposes of a free nation, the pursuit of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. Therefore, now is the time to chart our future as never before, ensuring the sanctity of our past and the joy of our future!”