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Above, L to R: ESE President and CEO Gene Cassidy, Rear Admiral John Stafford and West Springfield Mayor Will Reichelt.

Naval officers salute the flag during the Navy Week kick-off at The Big E.

Connecticut River Valley Navy Week at The Big E

In recognition of the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States Navy and our country, September 22-28 is Connecticut River Valley Navy Week. The Big E is rolling out a star-spangled lineup now through Sunday to educate the public about the importance of the U.S. Department of Defense’s maritime service branch.

“The goal of this programming is to educate and inform people,” said Lieutenant Madison Kwok of the U.S. Navy’s Public Affairs team. “We want to show them what the Navy is and help people better understand why we are so important to national security. There is no active presence in Western Mass., so this is a strategic stop where that message is most needed.”

The itinerary kicked off on Storrowton Gazebo, located in Eastern States Exposition’s (ESE) 19th century village, at 10am on Monday, September 22. The run of show included West Springfield Mayor Will Reichelt; ESE President and CEO Gene Cassidy; Rear Admiral John Stafford of Groton, Conn.; representatives from AMVETS; the presentation of colors; a performance by the U.S. Navy Ceremonial Guard Drill Team; and the swearing in of 16 recruits.

Mayor Reichelt, on behalf of Governor Maura Healy and Lt. Governor Kim Driscoll, proclaimed Monday, September 22, through Sunday, September 28, Connecticut River Valley Navy Week and encouraged citizens of the Commonwealth to observe the event.

“People join the Navy in the pursuit of purpose,” said Stafford, “It is a life of service meaningful not because it leaves behind wealth or titles, but a legacy of duty, sacrifice and impact that endure beyond the self.”

Throughout the week, find members of the U.S. Navy on the Court of Honor lawn with a display, in The Big Parade at 6pm daily and in live music performances on the Storrowton Gazebo and Court of Honor Stage.

Storrowton Gazebo

September 22-24: Navy Band Northeast: Woodwind Quintet, 1:30pm
September 24-25: Navy Band Northeast: Rhode Island Sound, 2pm
September 22-28: U.S. Navy Ceremonial Guard Drill Team, 4pm

Court of Honor Stage

ESE is honored to be a part of the Connecticut River Valley Navy Week celebrations, and we hope you will join us at The Big E, now through September 28, to learn more about the U.S. Navy and enjoy related entertainment. Find more information and purchase tickets at TheBigE.com!