Fort Miles to highlight WWII history at Delaware Defense Day

Honoring the men and women who secured the home front during World War II, Delaware Defense Day is set for 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, April 25, at the Fort Miles Historical Area in Cape Henlopen State Park, Lewes.

The Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control’s Division of Parks and Recreation, the Fort Miles Harbor Defenses of the Delaware Living History Association and the Fort Miles Historical Association will host this year’s open house and living history event.

Living history reenactors will be dressed in period uniforms representing the soldiers who served at Fort Miles during and after World War II. An array of historic military vehicles will be on site.

There is no fee to attend the event, but state park admission fees and Fort Miles Museum admission fees of $6 per person are in effect.

A short walk through the Fort Miles artillery park leads to the entrance of Battery 519, which housed two 12-inch coastal artillery guns during World War II and is now the home of the Fort Miles Museum. Its exhibits showcase coastal defense and daily life for the soldiers and civilians stationed at the fort during and after the war.

“Delaware Defense Day brings history to life in a way that connects people directly to the stories of those who served here,” said Will Short, Fort Miles Historical Association vice president. “It’s an opportunity to honor that legacy while creating a meaningful and engaging experience for visitors of all ages.”

Due to limited parking at Fort Miles, shuttle service will be provided from the McBride Beach Bathhouse parking lot within Cape Henlopen State Park.

To learn more, go to fortmilesmuseum.org.