Armed Forces Day

(Columbia, S.C.)- The Columbia Recruiting Battalion celebrated retirees and honored new soldiers at the Armed Forces Day event at Fort Jackson's Hilton Field Saturday, May 21.

The event began with the opening ceremony which featured Major General James M. Milano swearing-in the Future Soldiers from the Columbia Recruiting Battalion. The oath was followed by the main address from guest speaker Major General Bob Livingston, The Adjutant General of South Carolina.

The Opening Ceremony was followed by a day of activities for Army families including children's entertainment, food vendors, and military displays.

Soldiers gather on Fort Jackson's Hilton Field for the Armed Forces Day Opening Ceremony, celebrating Future Soldiers, Active Soldiers, and Veterans.

Future Soldiers from the Columbia Recruiting Battalion pledge their commitment to the Army during the Future Soldier swear-in led by Major General James M. Milano.

Major General Bob Livingston, The Adjutant General of South Carolina, delivers a speech to the attendees of the Armed Forces Day Opening Ceremony. 

The 282nd Army Band of Fort Jackson march and play on Hilton Field as the Armed Forces Day Opening Ceremony commences. 

Future Soldiers Yaritza Martinez and Harvey Hunter from the Columbia Recruiting Battalion discuss their new duties as Soldiers after the Armed Forces Day Opening Ceremony.

Visitors check out an Army helicopter display at the Armed Forces Day event. Other showcases included military weapon and equipment displays.

Chloe Rodgers, Columbia Recruiting Battalion