Fort Leonard Wood Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation officials estimate more than 12,000 people participated in the installation's annual Independence Day Celebration Monday at Gammon Field.
Numerous service members along with area community members took part in the day's activities, featuring the area's largest fireworks display funded by the Fort Leonard Wood Recycling Program.
"We're proud to be able to claim that our show is by far the largest and longest show in this region of Missouri," said Wayne Bardell, FMWR director.
The fireworks capped off the night, but not before performances by the 399th Army Band rock band, the Rough Riders, and hit band Everclear.
People began gathering on Gammon Field at 3 p.m. to see a car show and to participate in multiple activities.
"This year's event had a much enhanced activity schedule as we increased the children activities to include a larger petting zoo area and the inflatables; and the carnival rides for our older youth," Bardell said. "Geoff Aaron with the Red Bull Motocross show was a crowd favorite and something we'd like to continue with next year, along with the dog show from Kansas City."
At 7:30 p.m., Maj. Gen. Kent Savre, Maneuver Support Center of Excellence and Fort Leonard Wood commanding general, provided remarks prior to a 50-gun Salute to the Union.
Related Links:
Maneuver Support Center of Excellence and Fort Leonard Wood Facebook
Social Sharing