Allentown Composite Squadron Opens Community's Independence Day Declaration Reading
JOINT BASE MCGUIRE–DIX–LAKEHURST, N.J. (July 6, 2026) — Cadets from the Allentown Composite Squadron of Civil Air Patrol proudly presented the colors during Allentown's annual public reading of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, helping launch the community's celebration of America's 250th anniversary.
Hosted by The Allentown Village Initiative (TAVI), the annual ceremony began promptly at 9 a.m. in Pete Sensi Park as church bells rang throughout the borough. General George Washington, portrayed by actor-historian Sam Davis, made his traditional arrival by boat across Conine's Mill Pond, where he was welcomed by a trumpet fanfare and Civil Air Patrol cadets before the community gathered to read the words that gave birth to a nation.
The annual reading serves as a reminder of the nation's founding principles and the extraordinary sacrifices made by the Declaration's signers as they launched the American Revolution. Residents and visitors joined together to read the historic document in a ceremony that has become a cherished Independence Day tradition in Allentown.
The squadron's color guard, composed of cadets trained in military customs and courtesies, opened the ceremony by presenting the nation's colors, setting a respectful and patriotic tone for the event.
"Participating in this annual tradition is a tremendous honor for our cadets," said 1st Lt. Marie Pluchino-Hall, commander of the Allentown Composite Squadron. "Presenting the colors at the reading of the Declaration of Independence allows our cadets to connect with our nation's history while demonstrating their commitment to service, leadership, and citizenship. We are proud to be part of a community that continues to celebrate the ideals upon which our country was founded."
Representing the Allentown Composite Squadron at the ceremony were Cadet Chief Master Sgts. Darshini Babu, Nikitha Ganeshpandi, Ishani Balaji, Daniel Welborn and Sahasra Kolluru, along with Cadet 2nd Lt. Mason Hall. They were accompanied by senior members 1st Lt. Scott Hall, 2d Lt. Aixa Welborn and Pluchino-Hall.
Civil Air Patrol cadets regularly participate in community ceremonies throughout New Jersey, serving as color guards and honor guards while developing leadership skills, discipline, and an appreciation for civic responsibility.
The Allentown Composite Squadron meets weekly on Thursday nights from 7-9 at St. John the Baptist Roman Catholic Church in Allentown and welcomes youth ages 12 through 18 interested in leadership, aviation, emergency services, aerospace education, fitness, and character development. Adult volunteers are also invited to serve in a variety of leadership and support roles. To arrange a visit, email Nj082.squadron@njwg.cap.gov.
About Civil Air Patrol
Founded in 1941 and established as the official civilian auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force seven years later, Civil Air Patrol is chartered by Congress as a nonprofit organization for the purposes of youth development, aerospace education, and to promote general aviation. In an auxiliary role as a Total Force partner of the Air Force, CAP operates the world’s largest fleet of single-engine aircraft for search and rescue, disaster relief, training, and education. Civil Air Patrol is dedicated to serving America’s communities, saving lives, and shaping futures.
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For More Information:
Lt. Col. Bill Petzinger, CAP
1+ 609-306-0966
Email: public.affairs@njwg.cap.gov
