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The Mustang Stampede celebrates the 4th of July

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Christopher A. Marasky
  • 51 Fighter Wing Public Affairs
OSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea --  Fun, fireworks, and a large celebration are American traditions when it comes to the Fourth of July.

Fortyseven miles from the Demilitarized Zone separating North Korea and the Republic of Korea, the celebration of America's birth is no different at Osan AB.

Osan held its annual Liberty Fest, with members of Team Osan and our host nation guests invited to enjoy the festivities.

As the most forward deployed permanent base in the Air Force, it's important for the Mustang Stampede to take a moment to join the rest of the country to pay tribute to America's independence, as well as the ideals it represents.

"The 4th of July represents independence and freedom.  Not only for the United States, but for all the other countries struggling around the world," said Master Sgt. Mark Wood, 7th Air Force Security Forces.

"This is a celebration of independence today.  This solidifies what we do every day, and why we do it," said Staff Sgt. James Frison, 51st Communication Squadron.

The celebration started in the early afternoon with the band Fishbowl Five, followed by the posting of the colors and both the Republic of Korea and United States national anthems.

Other events through the day included performances from the band Ko-La, DJ music performances, the Korean NANTA drum performers and a Korean Tae-Kwan-Do demonstration.

Base organizations were set up to provide plenty of food and drinks, including holiday staple, hot dogs, hamburgers and BBQ ribs.  Also on hand were a few of Team Osan's mascots, including Sparky the 51st Civil Engineering fire department mascot, as well as the mascot from the 51st Services Squadron.

The day's events culminated shortly after dark with a large fireworks display, which lit up the night sky over Liberty Fest.

"This is great, especially for those of us who don't have families here," said Tech. Sgt. Jocelin Borisow, 51st Civil Engineering Squadron.  "This really gives us something fun and positive to do."