Base celebrates Independence Day

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Aja Heiden
  • 482nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs
HOMESTEAD AIR RESERVE BASE, Fla. --  Over 1,500 people attended the 482nd Fighter Wing's 5th Annual Independence Day Celebration in front of the Heritage Hall Conference Center on July 4.

Sponsored by 482nd Force Support Squadron, the event featured static displays of a Black Hawk helicopter from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection, a fire truck from the base fire department, the 482nd Explosive Ordnance Disposal Flight, and a visit from the Homestead Rodeo Queen.

"I patrol the U.S. boarders making sure no one smuggles goods into the territory and being able to bring the Black Hawk over for everyone to look at on the 4th of July is really special." said CBP Air Interdiction Agent Genaro Rodriguez.

Rodriguez and two other pilots showed off the Black Hawk and answered questions from the guests at the celebration.

The kids received a special treat when Captain America, Batman, Wonder Woman, Spider Man and Thor "dropped in" for a visit.

The event also had a bounce house, bubble machine, amusement rides, and food and refreshments.

"My kids love the bubbles - looks like this is where they'll be all day," said Shanla Avellano, a guest at the event.

The highlight of the evening was a wonderful fireworks show that went off with a spectacular array of colors and patterns drawing upon the sky.