FORT BENNING, Ga., (July 1, 2015) -- Fort Benning hosted its annual Independence Day celebration June 27, drawing thousands of Soldiers and Family members to York Field for a variety of activities that included one of the largest fireworks displays in the Chattahoochee Valley.

"This is our first year at the Fort Benning Independence Celebration and we are having a blast," said Kathy Hawks, whose husband is currently attending the Armor Basic Officer Leader Course. "My parents are in town, and it's so cool to have an opportunity to bring them to such a Family event."

"I like getting to play on the bounce houses," said Sarah Cranes, 6, whose father is a drill sergeant. "Dad also let me have my own funnel cake and I almost ate the whole thing."

The event was also a lucky moment for one Family, as Kia Autosport of Columbus gave away a free automobile to an active-duty Soldier or spouse. Darcy Cavanaugh, whose name was selected randomly, was the night's winner of the new Kia Soul.

The event wasn't just enjoyed by Family members and Soldiers, however. Many of the vendors who participated in the celebration said they looked forward to the event for weeks.

Verizon Wireless assistant district manager Ondrey Williams set up a Verizon tent with over 40 phones for Soldiers to make free phone calls home.

"A lot of these guys haven't talked to their Families in months or weeks," Williams said. "They've been in training and don't have access to phones. We love seeing their faces after just a brief phone call -- we are here to support our troops, and thank them."

Activities at the celebration also included music by former American Idol contestant and rising country music star Garrett Miles, a variety of games, chances to jump from the 34-foot Airborne training tower, bounce houses, food and the Ranger SPIES and FRIES exhibition.

The event culminated with fireworks choreographed to the 1812 Overture, performed by the Maneuver Center of Excellence Band and a 50-gun salute by B Battery, 1st Battalion, 10th Field Artillery.