Military Celebrates July 4
Families watch a firework show at Marek Park on Kadena Air Base, Japan, June 3, 2012. Independence Day is commonly associated with fireworks, parades, barbecues, carnivals, fairs, picnics, concerts, baseball games, family reunions, and political speeches and ceremonies, in addition to various other public and private events celebrating the history, government, and traditions of the United States. U.S. Air Force photo/Airman 1st Class Justin Veazie
Naval Station Rota Celebrates Fourth Of July With Flag Raising
By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Travis Alston, Naval Station Rota, Spain Public Affairs
U.S. service members assigned to Naval Station Rota, Spain raised the U.S. flag aboard the Spanish Naval Base July 4 by special permission of the Spanish base commander.
U.S. Naval Station Rota is only permitted to fly the U.S. flag with specific permission from the Spanish base commander-in-chief due to the restrictions set in the Agreement for Defense Cooperation, the governing document between the United States and the Kingdom of Spain.
Hundreds of service members representing the Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force and Army participated in the flag-raising ceremony.“An event like this, held but once a year, speaks directly to the patriotism of each and every one of you – military and civilian alike,” said Capt. Scott Kraverath, Naval Station Rota, Spain commanding officer.”
Kraverath added that it is extremely rare to have an opportunity to fly the 15-star flag.
“I love to see our nation’s flag flying, no matter the location,” said Boatswain’s Mate 2nd Class Paul Lembo. “It’s extra special to be here for the 200th anniversary of the War of 1812 and see the 15-star flag flying. This is definitely something that I will always remember.”
From 2012 through 2015, the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard and Army are commemorating the Bicentennial of the War of 1812 and our national anthem, the “Star-Spangled Banner.” This was the first time Naval Station Rota has flown the 15 star-flag.
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Soldiers of the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard), conduct a 3 mile run celebrating the fourth of July at Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall and Arlington National Cemetery, Va., July 4, 2012. (U.S. Army Photo by Sgt. Jose A. Torres)
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Vicenza Military Community Scouts took part in an age-old tradition during the 4th of July opening ceremony on Caserma Ederle when they conducted a pageant of the flags. The state flags were carried by the youth in order of each states admission into the union while community members cheered on their favorite state. US Army Garrison Commander, Col. David Buckingham, thanked everyone for participating and encouraged community members to volunteer or join community focused clubs.
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