Patriots' Day: Remembering how it all began Published March 27, 2012 By J.C. Corcoran 66th Air Base Group Public Affairs HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. -- Patriots' Day is a special Massachusetts holiday commemorating the opening battle of the American Revolutionary War on April 19, 1775. This year the holiday offers another opportunity for base personnel to witness the unique, historical reenactments depicting those major events that led to the independence of the United States. Although not a federal holiday and Hanscom Air Force Base will be operating on normal duty hours, there are a number of activities scheduled that offer the community an opportunity to witness some of these reenactments and take a step "back in time" to witness the events that took place in the fight for liberty and freedom. Below are just a few of the many things that will take place in April, all leading up to the Patriots' Day commemoration on April 16. For a more detailed list of events taking place throughout April, go to www.battleroad.org. Annual Pole Capping and Parade Town of Bedford April 7 The parade starts on the Town Common at 10:30 a.m. and will proceed past the Fitch Tavern where the Bedford unit and dignitaries will acknowledge each marching unit. The parade will continue on to Capt. Jonathan Wilson Park where pole capping ceremonies will commence. The parade will resume to a viewing stand in front of the Bedford Library, from which the guests and officials will accept salutes from the units as they pass in review. Recommended parking is at the Bedford High School or behind the town library. Paul Revere's Capture Town of Lincoln April 7 A Lincoln company of minutemen will assemble at the Battle Road visitors' center at the Minute Man National Historical Park (Route 2A) in Lincoln. With flags flying and colonial fifes and drums playing, the Lincoln Minutemen and their guests will march down Nelson Road, a section of the original Battle Road, to the Paul Revere Capture Site on Route 2A. There the story of the capture of Revere, the escape of Samuel Prescott and William Dawes and the heroism of Lincoln residents in carrying the alarm to Concord will be narrated. The sequence of events will be accompanied by a musket salute and colonial music. Battle Road Event at the Hartwell Tavern Town of Lincoln April 14 From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., just outside the Vandenberg Gate, the largest Battle Road reenactment takes place and will feature hundreds of British and Colonial re-enactors encamped at the Hartwell Tavern and Capt. William Smith house. There will be drill and musket demonstrations, 18th Century artillery demonstrations, crafts, games and more. This event offers attendees a chance to get up close and talk with the re-enactors about 18th century life. The highlight of the day is a massed tactical weapons demonstration, running over a half-mile of the original Battle Road, starting at 11 a.m. Battle on Lexington Green Town of Lexington April 16 On April 16 the day begins bright and early at 5:30 in Lexington center with the Battle on Lexington Green. This event recreates the historic skirmish in Lexington on the first day of the American Revolution. Events range from pancake breakfasts to town parades and continue on throughout the day. For a full list of Lexington events, go to www.lexingtonminutemen.com or visit www.battleroad.org. Battle at the North Bridge Town of Concord April 16 The re-enacted battle will take place at 8 a.m. as the peace of the Concord countryside is once again shattered with musket fire as British and Colonial re-enactors, park rangers and volunteers commemorate the fateful morning of April 19, 1775, when the colonists were ordered to fire upon British soldiers. This moment in history became known as the shot heard 'round the world. For a full listing of reenactments, concerts and other events go to www.battleroad.org and www.nps.gov/mima/patriots-day.htm. Those interested in attending should check the websites prior to attending as all events are subject to change.