Please join me in co-sponsoring a resolution to designate July 4, 2026, as “Valley Forge National Historical Park Day” in Pennsylvania, celebrating the National Park’s 50th anniversary.
 
Valley Forge National Historical Park, located in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, boasts more than 3,500 acres of rolling hills, historic landscapes and monuments, designated picnic areas, a six-mile multi-use trail, 35 miles of designated hiking trails, 19 miles of biking trails, and 17 miles of horse trails.
 
Long before it was recognized as a National Park, Valley Forge was remembered for the crucial role it played in the American Revolution. Between December 1777 and June 1778, the Continental Army, led by General George Washington, faced brutal winter conditions, shortage of provisions, and were devastated by disease. Despite the many hardships, their 6-month encampment at Valley Forge resulted in significant transformation of the Continental Army. Courtesy of the training of former Prussian officer Baron von Steuben, the Continental Army shifted from a collection of colonial militias to a unified and disciplined fighting force. This reform would go on to inspire the foundation of the modern United States Army.
 
On May 30, 1893, Governor Robert Pattison approved legislation to establish Valley Forge as Pennsylvania’s first State Park. The park was preserved and maintained by the Valley Forge Park Commission. 83 years later, on July 4, 1976, President Gerald Ford came to Valley Forge and signed a law creating Valley Forge National Historical Park. Valley Forge became the 283rd unit of the National Park System, and the only National Park that celebrates its birthday on July 4th.
 
Please consider joining me in co-sponsoring this resolution celebrating 50 years of Valley Forge National Historical Park, and commemorating the park’s deep history rooted in our Commonwealth.