CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — On Thursday, community members kicked of Independence Day celebrations at Sherrill Park for the Veterans Affairs' Patriotic Ceremony.
The ceremony paid special tribute to those who keep our nation free with a presentation of the colors and a special performance by the Veterans Band of Corpus Christi.
"It's about honoring our nation's history and the people that made it happen," Mayor Paulette Guajardo said. "The reason we're here, the reason we enjoy our freedom every single day is because of those who gave their lives and who came before us."
US Navy sailor Joseph Castruita said Fourth of July is a time for residents to come together and celebrate.
"With all of the drama that goes in the world, it's a day where we can all unite and enjoy everything that goes on," Castruita said. "You know, with the fireworks, barbecues, it's a day where Americans are really shown all that."
The celebrations continued throughout the afternoon with the Coastal Comida Food Truck Festival at Water's Edge Park and the Mayor's Big Bang firework show Thursday night.
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