Special Events

During the year, the VCA is often invited to participate in significant ceremonial patriotic events.

Evacuation Day

2008 - New York, NY

After eight years of war, the Treaty of Paris brought an end to hostilities in the American Revolution. British and Hessian forces withdrew by ship from New York on November 25, 1783. As the retreating armies relinquished control of Manhattan, the American army advanced, led by General Washington along with General George Clinton (who served as Governor of New York until 1795). In honor of Washington's entrance to New York, patriots proudly displayed the American flag. There was a surreal atmosphere in the reclaiming of New York City. Enroute to the battery, Washington and his troops passed half-ruined mansions, earthworks and trenches dotted the streets, making them impassable. The largest structure in the city, Trinity Church, was a blackened hull. At the battery General Knox was accorded the privilege of raising the American flag at Fort George (near Castle Clinton), but the flagpole was heavily greased with the Union Jack on top, a last act of defiance by the British. Sgt. Van Arsdale (later Capt. Van Arsdale of the VCASNY) using nails for steps climbed the pole, removed the Union Jack and raised the American flag. Huzzahs from the crowd mixed with church bells and a 13 gun saluted to our new found freedom. That evening Governor Clinton hosted a celebratory dinner for Washington and his general staff at Fraunces Tavern.

Prison Ship Martyrs Monument Centennial Celebration

The VCA provided a Color Guard, Field Music, and a Salute by Rifle Battery to mark the Centennial Celebration. The procession began at 1515 hrs (3:15 pm) at South Oxford Park, So. Oxford St. and Atlantic Ave. The parade travelled four blocks along Oxford to Ft. Greene Park, ending at the Monument stairs for the posting of the federal colors. The ceremonies commenced shortly thereafter with speeches, the salute by the firing party, and a wreath-laying. At 1700HRS (5:00 pm) the Eternal Flame was re-lit and the ceremonies concluded. A gala reception was held at the Brooklyn Technical High School for all participants.