Collingdale Borough celebrated Patriot's Day on Saturday September 12, 2015. Numerous organizations participated in a fun filled day. Veteran's from several groups including the Second Brigade motorcycle club along with Darby VFW provided a 21-gun salute and playing of taps. Ofc. Jim Gallagher, FF John Ellis(Collingdale 1) and Assistant Chief Bill Wentzel(Collingdale 2) raised the flag. Ofc. Bill Carter and Councilman Tom Heckman played the bag pipes for the crowd. Emcee Bill Garrity, a 50 year member of Collingdale 1, moved the ceremony along. Mayor Frank Kelly led the pledge of allegiance and said a few remarks. Pastor's Perry Messick and Donna Sarog gave the invocation and benediction. The Church of the Nazarene Praise Band provided music for the ceremony. Fran Sankey played the acoustic guitar for the crowd prior to the ceremony. Everyone enjoyed free hot dogs and pretzels provided by Franklin Mint Credit Union. Swiss Farms form Sharon Hill donated 300 drinks which were given away. The high light was a free raffle of 4 bicycles donated by Franklin Mint Credit Union. The bikes brought smiles to the children's faces. A BBQ grill was also raffled and the money from that will be donated to a Bullet Proof Vest fund being started by Ofc. Marc Hanly from the Ridley Park Police Department and the Chief of Collingdale 1. During the event Ofc. Bill Carter found out he is being awarded a Liberty Medal for his work with veteran's with PTSD and a clothing drive for homeless veterans. Ofc. Carter also organizes a Toys for Tots drive. Thanks to everyone for making it a great day. A special thank you to Anne Neborak for the photographs.
George Barbine and his wife Joanne
Chief Adams and Chief McBreen
