Photo By Chief Petty Officer Gino Flores | The musicians from the band, Camp Leatherneck, with II Marines Expeditionary Force...... read more read more
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CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan – Coalition troops deployed here commemorated 235 years of Independence by participating in events that included ceremonies, concerts, an outdoor picnic and team sport competitions.
The activities kicked off with a 10km run followed by a flag raising ceremony and remarks from Regional Command Southwest commanding general, Maj. Gen. John A. Toolan, about the history of the holiday.
The troops who celebrated on the Fourth of July represented a cross section of American culture.
“As a naturalized citizen born in Mexico, it is very important for me to celebrate this holiday,” said Army Pfc. Rodolfo Nieves, a bridge crew member with 814 Multi-roll Bridge Company out of Ft. Polk, La. “I adopted this country as my own and feel I am part of a great team doing good things for the people of Afghanistan.”
“[Afghans] can also have peace and unity in this country and they can learn what freedom is all about,” he added.
Several British service members attended the morning flag raising ceremony in a show of support to their American brethren.
“We didn’t mind losing the independence war as much as we were upset about all that tea wasted in the harbor during the Boston tea party,” chuckled Royal Air Force Flight Lt. Rich Smith.
The day ended with an outdoor concert performed by the Marines’ division band, Camp Leatherneck, followed by the base chapel band Oasis that drew applause and cheers from the audience.
| Date Taken: | 07.05.2011 |
| Date Posted: | 07.08.2011 12:28 |
| Story ID: | 73448 |
| Location: | CAMP LEATHERNECK, AF |
| Web Views: | 84 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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