KING OF PRUSSIA, Pa. — [March 27, 2025] — Philadelphia Gear, a trusted partner of the United States Navy for nearly a century, is proud to announce its “Two Star” Sponsorship of Homecoming 250 Navy Marine Corps, a historic celebration marking the 250th birthdays of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps.
Set to take place in Philadelphia and Camden in October 2025, this weeklong event commemorates not only the 250th anniversary of American independence, but also the founding of two of its most storied military branches—both of which began their service in Philadelphia in 1775.
“For nearly 100 years, Philadelphia Gear has been proud to power the U.S. Navy’s fleet,” said Carl Rapp, Timken group vice president. “We are deeply honored to support Homecoming 250 and to celebrate the Navy and Marine Corps' legacy of service, innovation, and sacrifice. As the birthplace of these services and of American independence, Philadelphia is the perfect setting for this landmark celebration.”
Philadelphia Gear currently furnishes all main reduction gears (MRGs) for newest ships of the DDG-51, LHA-6, LPD-17, CVN-78, and FFG-62 classes. These MRGs are critical components of the ship’s propulsion system, transferring energy from the engines to the propeller shafts to drive the ship at variable speeds. Designed in King of Prussia, Pa., and built at the company’s Santa Fe Springs, Calif. marine center, these systems represent the next generation of Navy propulsion technology.
With over 130 years of experience in power transmission design, Philadelphia Gear is a recognized leader in high-performance gear systems. Since being acquired by The Timken Company in 2011, the company has continued to deliver mission-critical components for a wide range of naval ship classes.
Homecoming 250 Navy Marine Corps will feature a series of public events, including a Parade of Ships, ship tours, museum exhibits, a 250th Anniversary Run, and a flyover by the U.S. Navy Blue Angels on October 13. The celebration is designed to honor the past, inspire the future, and unite Americans in gratitude for 250 years of service by the Navy and Marine Corps.