Scions Reunion 2026
A REUNION IN THE BIRTHPLACE
OF THE MODERN U.S. ARMY
In the winter of 1777, the Continental Army huddled in the huts of Valley Forge, freezing but unbroken. There, they were forged into the army that would win our independence.
In the winter of 1944, the men of the 17th Airborne Division huddled in the foxholes of the Ardennes. Facing the coldest winter in decades and the might of the German offensive, they proved that the spirit of Valley Forge lived on in a new generation.
Join the Scions of the 17th Airborne Division in Valley Forge, PA, for our annual reunion!
Held in the birthplace of the modern US Army, this event bridges our Division's history with the upcoming celebration of America’s 250th anniversary. This weekend is a unique opportunity to gather with veterans, families, and historians to honor the men of the 17th Airborne Division.
We have planned a full itinerary designed to bring our history to life and strengthen the bonds of our community. From guided historical tours and memorial services to relaxed sessions for sharing personal photos and artifacts, this event offers a welcoming environment for everyone. We invite you to be part of this important tradition of remembrance and fellowship.
EVENT AND TICKETING REGISTRATION
https://buytickets.at/scionsofthe17thairborne/1978423
HOTEL RESERVATIONS
We have a room block reserved at Embassy Suites by Hilton Philadelphia Valley Forge between March 20, 2026 and March 23, 2026.
The Scions group room rate is $159.00/night. **Rate only valid for 3/20 thru 3/22.
Booking your room is simple, just click on the link below and select "Book a Room" to receive the Scion's preferred rate.
https://www.hilton.com/en/attend-my-event/phlvles-92c-bb3753a7-e16b-40cc-ba81-44bd19ec4a93/
Any questions, contact Patty Bowers at Scion17th@gmail.com or Ed Siergiej at scionsofthe17thairborne@gmail.com.
Airborne, all the way!
Schedule
Scions Merchandise will be available for purchase in the Hospitality Room
Please register with us in the Hospitality Room after check-in.
ITINERARY (subject to change if necessary)
Friday Night
3:00 - 10:00p Check in and distribution of Event Schedule
5:00 - 6:30p Evening reception and dinner on your own
7:00 - 10:00p Hospitality room open.
Meet and Greet with Scions and Veterans (if available)
1 Free drink + appetizers included in room rate in Lounge area.
Saturday
7:00 - 9:30a Made to order Breakfast - buffet and/or omelet station (included in room rate)
10:00a Depart Hotel and carpool to Valley Forge Visitor Center
Watch brief movie of Valley Forge at gift shop upon arrival.
11:00a (sharp) Board trolley for 90 Minute tour. 38 seats available on a first come, first served basis.
Otherwise, an $8.95 audio tour can be purchased for your vehicle and you can follow behind the
trolley or go at your own pace.
Ticket Prices; Adults: $23.00 // Students, Seniors (62+), & Military: $21.00 // Children 11 & Under: $13.00
12:45p Depart Valley Forge; return to hotel for on-your-own lunch.
2:00 - 3:00p Business meeting in the hospitality room. Election of officers.
3:00 - 5:30p Meet and greet with veterans (if available); Scions gather to talk
about their veterans and share photos and artifacts. 1 Free drink + appetizers included in room rate
5:30 - 7:00p Dinner on your own
7:30 - 10:00p Surrogate Paratrooper Jump / 17th Lecture
Sunday
7:00 - 9:30a Made to order Breakfast - buffet and/or omelet station (included in room rate)
10:00a Depart Hotel for Heroes Grove and Memorial Service
10:30 - 11:30a Memorial Service
11:30a - 1:00p Lay wreath at Gold Star memorial and Lunch in the McArthur Building
On-site lunch catered by Mission BBQ. $26 per person.
1:00 - 2:30p Tour the grounds of Heroes Grove and lay flowers at the 4 MOH recipients sites.
A few golf carts are available for those with mobility issues.
2:45- 3:45p Tour Washington Memorial Chapel
4:00p Return to hotel. Free time/Hospitality room
5:00 - 6:30p Evening Reception - 1 Free drink + appetizers included in room rate
6:30- 10:00p Evening program TBD/ farewells
Monday
Checkout by Noon
As part of our mission to honor the service of all veterans of the 17th and to educate others about the history and sacrifices made by the troopers who served in this division during WW II, we hold regional gatherings where troopers and their families can gather and share their recollections.
At present we hold a reunion to commemorate Operation Varsity, which has historically been held in Lancaster, Pennsylvania (although we are investigating options to try a different location).
In addition to the reunions, we gather annually at Arlington National Cemetery to place a wreath on the memorial to the 17th Airborne, and at the World War II memorial on the National Mall in Washington DC. This occurs on the weekend nearest to Veteran's Day each year.
If you are interested in attending a reunion or the annual Arlington National Cemetery wreath laying, keep an eye on our "Thunder from Heaven" newsletter or send us an email!
On occasion, there are also trips to various locations in the United States and in Europe.