U.S. Troops in Afghanistan Celebrate 4th of July

U.S. Army Sgt. Robert Wilson, Combined Security Transition Command-Afghanistan, fills a plate with barbecue at Camp Eggers' Independence Day celebration in Kabul, Afghanistan. Servicemembers participated in a myriad of traditional Fourth of July events including a basketball tournament, horse shoes and a pie-eating contest. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Beth Del Vecchio.)

Dispatches from the Front:

KABUL, Afghanistan, July 4, 2008 -- Servicemembers assigned to the Combined Security Transition Command-Afghanistan celebrated America's 232nd Independence Day today in the traditional way, but in a non-traditional setting.

Video.

Serving thousands of miles away from home in a warzone, servicemembers took time off to recharge and partake in the things that make the Fourth of July a special holiday -- including a basketball tournament, horse shoes, a pie-eating contest and a barbecue.

Kicking off the day's events were opening remarks and a cake-cutting ceremony led by Maj. Gen. Robert Cone, CSTC-A commanding general.

"Today, we see our flag displayed in Blackhawks and Humvees, on aircraft carriers and fighter jets, in tactical operations centers and combat outposts. We wear the flag on our uniforms and bear it in our hearts. We salute it, we serve under it, and we fight for it," General Cone said.

Camp Eggers' Morale, Welfare and Recreation organized the event, providing a taste of home for all soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines and civilians here.

"I'm so pleased it turned out well," said Air Force Maj. Regina Rockel, CSTC-A MWR officer. "The garrison commander and all the noncommissioned officers did an outstanding job in making this a fun time for everyone on Camp Eggers."

Adding to the festive atmosphere was Camp Eggers' own Freedom Band. The band, made up of servicemembers from Camp Eggers, played patriotic tunes throughout the day.

"We formed just for this occasion," said Air Force Master Sgt. Donnell Woodard, the Freedom Band's leader and guitarist. "This is how we celebrate when we're home too. Good music, family and friends. We have that here as well."

For most servicemembers, the celebration was a reminder of home, with many activities being identical to those held stateside. Many servicemembers reflected on what their families were doing to celebrate America's independence.

"At home we would be going to the beach and having a big cookout," said Navy Lt. Kevin Davis, from Jacksonville, Fla. "We make the entire day one to remember."

Good food, music and festivities made sure that servicemembers would remember July Fourth in Afghanistan for a long time to come, as well.

(Story by Petty Officer 1st Class Shawn D. Graham, CSTC-A Public Affairs.)

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