PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- Military helicopters were seen in parts of Philadelphia on Thursday night as the Department of Defense continued training exercises in the city.

An Action News viewer captured video of a helicopter near Seventh and Race streets in Chinatown.

Two additional helicopters were spotted near the United States Mint in Old City, close to residential areas.

Officials said the drills are part of preparations for several events tied to the nation's 250th birthday, which will be celebrated next year.

We talked to security expert and retired Colonel Jack Tomarchio about the exercises.

He says this was probably to get pilots familiar with the city, and doing it during an Eagles game probably helped mimic the big events next year..

"It just gives you a better feel for what y

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