Northeast Wisconsin is filled with Independence Day events this weekend. Here in Green Bay Veterans are kicking off their own first of its kind remembrance and dedication ceremony, for those who served and didn't make it home.
Today the Desert Veterans of Wisconsin celebrated Independence Day by looking back and acknowledging that what we've become, as a nation, wouldn't be so if it weren't for those willing to risk and give their lives for all of our independence.
Today’s honoring of our veterans in Wisconsin started with a short parade.
"There was a lot enthusiasm from the veteran community to be a part of this," says Matt Bartley the President of the Desert Veterans of Wisconsin.
It later wrapped up about a mile away from where it began in west Green Bay where vet's from all different lines of duty remembered their brothers and sisters who served.
"You got a lot of different veteran groups and they're all unifying," says event organizer John Hoes who is also a member of the Vietnam Veterans of America organization.
On display from the Desert Veterans of Wisconsin was an overwhelming memorial of those lives lost in the gulf, who were natives of Wisconsin.
"I’m looking forward to going through and honoring each of those individuals that have served and sacrificed for us," says Jenni Johnson of Denmark, Wisconsin who comes from a long line of family who has served in our armed forces.
"There's been wars, there’s been sacrifices. But July 4th goes back to the original part of it which is our Independence," adds Bartley.
And while celebrating our independence, our country, is personal for everyone. It means something unique for those who have loved ones who have served our country.
"To hear taps being played and remember those that have sacrificed for the freedoms that I have is always very touching," adds Johnson.
July 4th is especially personal for those who have served though, and know all too well about what it took to have and maintain our freedom.
"July 4th to me is about celebrating our independence and it's about being patriotic. To understand when you see the flag and those that have served and did for your country it recognizes that service," adds Bartley.
So enjoy the fourth for everything that independence means for you. And try to keep in mind what it took, for us to have it.
