Fireworks for freedom

Giving meaning to the celebration

Independence Day is associated with family, friends, fun and fireworks. It’s possible that due to the attention given to the act of celebration and not the reason for the festivities, the focus of the day and its message get lost. Men and women of the United States Armed Forces deserve to be recognized on the Fourth of July, and that is what Pops on the River tries to hone in on. Amanda Copley, Arkansas DemocratGazette marketing and events director, said Pops on the River has multiple activities and benefits that focus on those in the military, recognizing them for their dedication and sacrifice. “We wouldn’t be here today if it wasn’t for the services of our armed forces and the commitment they have made to our freedom,” she said. “We are putting a special focus on these men and women with our Military Appreciation Tent and event cards, as well as our Armed Forces Salute later in the program.” Copley added that the Military Appreciation Tent is featured annually at the event and is located near the main entrance. Here, military personnel can register and receive a discount card that can be used at many of the vendors at the event. She said the benefits and recognition do not stop there. “We offer reserved seating for military personnel, as well as koozies and other fun items to give away as supplies last,” she said. The first 100 members who request a reserved seat in the amphitheater for the concert that evening will get assigned seating for free. “We are also excited to host an Armed Forces Salute during the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra’s performance, as well as our Salute to America, where we will have hundreds of American flags in the audience that will be waved in unison at a special time in the program.” While military personnel will assuredly be shown respect and appreciation, Copley reflected on what members of the nation’s armed forces mean to her and why they deserve special recognition. “When we think about these service men and women, one word always comes to mind — sacrifice. We are not always aware of the sacrifice our military members and their families make to safeguard us and to ensure our way of life,” she said. “We do, however, reap the benefits of these efforts, and it is important not to take them for granted. That is why we at the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette are proud to recognize and celebrate our military community on this Fourth of July.” Whether it’s by a simple handshake, words of gratitude or any other expression of gratefulness, the service men and women of the United States will surely feel appreciated at Pops on the River. Copley said she hopes these prized members of society enjoy the event. “I hope they are able to enjoy this day, celebrating the Fourth of July, and also see how much the community has come together at Pops on the River to enjoy fun, food, music and, most of all, our freedom,” she said. While friends and family gather around the Arkansas River for some fireworks and fun, it is important to remember the meaning behind the July Fourth celebration and those who helped bring about the occasion in the first place.