Golden Knights Help Him Celebrate 85th Birthday 

Former President George H.W. Bush celebrated his 85th birthday with a tandem jump with the U.S. Army Parachute Team, the Golden Knights. The event took place in Kennebunkport, Maine at St. Ann's Episcopal Church, which is the same location where the former president's parents were married.

Family and friends gathered to observe the jump, looking skyward as the former president and his tandem master SFC Michael Elliott, made their descent toward the target area. All five of his children were present, including the 43rd President, George W. Bush. Also in attendance were 150 members of C-Change, a cancer support organization, in which the Bushes are chairs. Friends from the town of Kennebunkport and Bush supporters gathered on the point in boats, clinging cowbells in support of his 85th birthday jump.

"It was a great exhilarating feeling, I don't feel a day over 84," noted the President. "It sends a message around the globe you don't have to sit around just 'cause you're an old guy drooling. Get out and do something, get out and enjoy life," he added.

Golden Knight Team Commander, LTC Tony Dill commented on what an honor it was to be part of such a special event for the 41st president. "We have been training for this event for some time, and to see our team members work together to make this event happen, it shows the strength of not only our Soldiers, but our Nation as well."

The Golden Knights celebrate their 50th anniversary this year, serving as Army ambassadors for more than one million Soldiers. This weekend also marks the 234th birthday for the U.S. Army.

FMI: www.armygoldenknights.com