In Mechanicsburg, Pa. on Oct. 9, a dual celebration took place to honor Raymond DeWalt. Raymond DeWalt was the founder of DEWALT, and the celebration both recognized the company's 100th anniversary and DeWalt's 139th birthday. DeWalt and his innovations made a huge impact on the city of Mechanicsburg and the construction industry as a whole. 
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During the commemoratory celebrations that day, three main events took place.
- Proclamation Ceremony: The mayor of Mechanicsburg, Jack Ritter, honored the late DeWalt by declaring Oct. 9 "Raymond DeWalt Day". This recognized the great innovation and significance that DeWalt has had for Mechanicsburg's community. The ceremony brought together descendants of DeWalt and DEWALT representatives.
- Tool Donations to Local Schools: DEWALT decided to pay tribute to the achievements that DeWalt made in the industry and his dedication to the trades by donating tools to a few local schools — Cumberland-Perry Area Vocational Technical School and Mechanicsburg High School. At one time, DeWalt had taught shop classes at these schools. DEWALT continues to support the trades just as its founders always had, staying true to DeWalt's commitment to encourage and positively influence the next generation.
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- Centennial Plaque Presentation: DEWALT presented Mayor Ritter with a commemorative centennial plaque which represented the company's commitment to the community and its connection with the city of Mechanicsburg.
"I knew the family," said Ritter. "Raymond DeWalt taught me how to use the DEWALT saw, and he also shopped in Ritters Hardware, a family store my grandfather opened in Mechanicsburg over 100 years ago. Ritters now sells DEWALT tools."
Event organizers said the event was a wonderful way to honor and celebrate DEWALT and the DeWalt legacy. Family and DEWALT representatives came together to celebrate Raymond DeWalt and the impactful things he did, as well as the ways he inspired youth and promoted the trades.
