Community Corner

Joint Base Lewis-McChord To Open Its Gates To Public Saturday for Armed Forces Day

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Brent Champaco, Patch StaffVerified Patch Staff Badge
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Joint Base Lewis-McChord will open its gates to the public for the base’s annual Armed Forces Day celebration Saturday, May 18 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

The celebration offers members of the community an opportunity to join JBLM service members in celebrating America’s history, our military heritage, and our continued commitment to serving our community.

Gates open to the general public at 10 a.m.

Volksmarch, sports events, Carnival Rides, Military History, Vehicle Displays, Live EntertainmentThe 2013 Armed Forces Day schedule begins early, with the Armed Forces Day Volksmarch. Registration and walk begins at 8:30 a.m. at Carey Theater, next to Cowan Stadium at JBLM Lewis Main.  Gates open to the general public at 10 a.m., just in time for rugby fans to catch the Army vs. Navy rugby match, at Cowan Stadium.

Following the rugby match there will be a ladies’ semi-pro tackle football game at 1 p.m. The Tacoma Trauma takes on the Portland Shockwave. Most of the attractions will be located at or near the Cowan and Memorial Stadiums.

Attractions include: carnival rides, military history displays and reenactments, displays of military vehicles and equipment, live music and entertainment, a climbing wall, and craft and food vendors. For more information about Armed Forces Day events, visit: http://www.JBLMArmedForcesDay.com or call (253) 477-4299

Access and Parking Information
Guests without an installation access pass should enter JBLM Lewis Main via the DuPont Gate: Take Interstate 5 to Exit 119. Northbound travelers should stay to the right as they exit the highway, southbound travelers should turn left as they exit the off-ramp and proceed eastbound across the overpass to enter the installation.

  • All vehicles entering the installation are subject to inspection
  • Drivers must present a valid license, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance
  • Passengers age 16 and older must present a government-issued photo ID
    • Civilian vehicles that are selected for inspection will be directed to the inspection area. Vehicles cleared for entry to the base will be directed to a parking area for shuttle bus transport to and from the event site.Visitors may not bring weapons, alcohol, illegal drugs, fireworks, or pets onto the base. Marijuana is illegal on JBLM. Military ID-card holders may not bring any of these items to the event (medical alert and medical assistance animals are permitted).

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