Apple Day draws the public to Fort Riley for activities ranging from helicopter and tank displays to the annual sale of apple pies made with Libby Custer’s recipe that dates back to the 19th century.

The pie sales help raise funds for Historical and Archeological Society of Fort Riley activities. The Vice President of HASFR, Laura Childers, said 1,500 pies were made. Every year those are sold out. She talked about how the fundraiser helps HASFR meet their mission. “Our mission is to preserve the history around Fort Riley. So that money goes to preserving signs. it goes into preserving period ware, our ghost tours and our tour of homes events.”

Volunteers provided help three shifts per day to make the pies and prepare for the annual sales at Apple Day. Approximately 150 volunteers helped with the pie making.

Those who attended Apple Day could also view Commanding General’s Mounted Color Guard demonstrations, helicopter and tank displays, military working dog demonstrations, an ATV rodeo, and there were kid friendly activities such as bounce houses. Numerous organizations presented information on health related topics to the public, and there were sales of food items and merchandise.