Naval Officer Chris Amis, "It's very important day being the birthday of our country and something that's probably far too overlooked these days." Chris and Angela Amis brought their 10-month old daughter, Ellie to her first July 4th celebration. They said Independence Day has a special meaning to people in Lemoore.
Angela Amis says, "I think it's a very patriotic town. I think there's a lot of Navy people here. My husband's in the Navy so it's nice to see that people come out and celebrate the 4th of July."
From puppies to firefighters, different community groups came out to show their American spirit. Then, the local Color Guard kicked off the 4th of July ceremony.
Lemoore Naval Air Station's Commander Stanley Dobbs just came back from the Pentagon where he was the first African-American to receive the prestigious military Logistics Officer of the Year award. He was honored for his achievements at the ceremony. Commander Stanley Dobbs says, " A lot of people in the military do not want to come to Lemoore because they think it's a small town in the middle of nowhere but when they get here 75% never leave because the community and the patriotism here."
Being patriotic can work up an appetite and several food vendors were there to satisfy hungry customers with hot dogs and tri-tip. Children swished down water slides and played with fire hoses.
City Recreation Director Lynne Nelson says, "It's really just a fun day for the family and Navy to get together to celebrate America's birthday."
The festivities also included a pie eating contest. Then, most of the people celebrating will head over to the Tachi Palace Hotel and Casino for fireworks.
