RIGA, Latvia-- The sun was shining, birds were chirping and freedom was in the air as the American Chamber of Commerce hosted its American Independence Day picnic in Latvia, July 2, 2016. Everyone was invited, Latvians, local Americans and soldiers from the 3rd Battalion, 69th Armored Regiment.
"What a wonderful day for a picnic, I think the weather could not be any better," said Nancy Pettit, the U.S. Ambassador to Latvia.
Raimonds Bergmanis, the Latvian Minister of Defense, gave his thoughts on the partnership between the two countries.
"As I look towards the future of our relationship, I see a bright future," said Bergmanis.
Soldiers from 3rd Bn., 69th Arm. Rgmt. hosted a static display at the celebration where Latvian citizens could try on U.S. Army helmets and body armor and sit in the driver's seat of an up-armored Humvee. Soldiers were there to explain the equipment, talk with families and help everyone pose for photos.
Sgt. Kelgin Wilder, native of Carthage, MS, said, "We should have more opportunities to have gatherings like this to build cohesion amongst our allies."
U.S. Army soldiers in attendance were deployed to Eastern Europe to train with Latvian forces in support of Operation Atlantic Resolve which is being conducted to demonstrate U.S. commitment to the collective security of NATO and dedication to enduring peace and stability in the region.
The National Latvian Armed Forces Orchestra performed at the event as well as Riga Voices, a local Latvian band who sang both the U.S. and Latvian national anthems.
With free food from local vendors, an area where you could learn to throw an American football and a bouncy house for children, everyone left content.
"Good music and food from another culture," said Wilder as he was leaving the picnic, "Today was great."
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