My Valley Forge Story: Neil Makhija

Park Superintendent Rose Fennell and guest speakers from Valley Forge's 50th Birthday Opening Ceremony celebration cut the ribbon at the new showcase firepit. NPS/ G.Purifoy

Montgomery County Commissioner Neil Makhija speaks at Valley Forge's 50th Birthday Opening Ceremony on July 3, 2026.

Good morning, everyone.

What a historic week we’ve had.

Valley Forge Tourism kicked off with a fantastic Block Party in Norristown.

Team USA won their World Cup game on Wednesday.

And now we're here for a double 50/250 celebration!

We are lucky to have Valley Forge right on our doorstep. It’s a connection point—both literally and metaphorically. We can connect with our shared history. And with our own personal stories. In Montgomery County we’ve built something many communities envy, one of the best trail networks in the country. It’s over 100 miles of trails, Valley Forge alone has 35 miles. And millions of people come out here every year. And it’s on the trails where my Valley Forge Story happened. As an avid cyclist, I am a strong advocate for our trail network. I like to put my wheels where my words are.

One summer day like today—bright, sunny, extremely hot.I cycled the Schuylkill River Trail here from Philadelphia and around Valley Forge. Fifty miles. 100-degree heat. It is a beautiful ride. You should try it—though maybe not today.Winding through this historic site—you think about what George Washington and the Continental Army endured here. They faced a brutal winter. And an uncertain future.They didn’t know that their perseverance would lead to a hopeful new democracy. All they had was historic resilience and a belief in their cause.That perspective—determination during extreme challenge—motivated me during my ride.Unfortunately, for me, I was cycling during a code red heat advisory. And I collapsed in the parking lot. And my wife, Rachel, had to come and pick me up.

So while the Continental Army survived a winter at Valley Forge—I didn’t survive a summer afternoon.

Valley Forge makes history accessible. As well as countless personal historic moments.So happy anniversary! Enjoy the holiday weekend and all the events on offer. And please, stay hydrated today, don’t cycle 50 miles home today.

Where this belongs

• Valley Forge National Historical Park

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