Celebrate independence with those who keep you independent.

Two years ago, the Marine Corps Logistics Base (MCLB) in Albany, Georgia launched its first Independence Day celebration, "Celebrate Independence With Those Who Keep You Independent." Due to the event's popularity among Marines and civilians, it has been declared an annual celebration. The base's MWR event coordinator and recreation marketing representative, modeled the celebration after a similar community-wide event held in years past. Considering the resources available through MCLB (manpower, security, space), it made sense to hold an Independence Day celebration aboard base. A major selling point was the strong opportunity to further strengthen relations between the base and the Albany community.

During the Base Realignment and Closure Commission studies Of recent years, MCLB Albany - And all Department of Defense (DOD) depots - came under close scrutiny as consolidation possibilities were considered. Albany, Dougherty County and the surrounding communities rallied in support of this command, forming a task force of local experts to study the many ways that MCLB Albany is a valuable resource to DOD and provides critical support for the nations defense. The independence Day Celebration evolved as a way for the civilian and military communities to continue the camaraderie and sense of unity that developed during those difficult times.

During that time of crisis, however, some civilians expressed feelings that the base was somewhat "off-limits." Many life-long Albany residents had never been within the confines of the base gates. With this in mind, the event proposal was presented with a community focus, high-lighting the positive impact on community relations and including the decision to open the event to the public. As part of the community involvement approach, the Public Affairs Department hosted guided tours of restricted areas and coordinated a tent where patrons could view the Command Brief video.

At the celebration, civilians and Marines enjoyed country music concerts, carnival rides, festival foods, Marine Corps Band performances, static displays, K-9 dog demos, human bowling, and a dynamic fireworks display. Community leaders hailed the event's success and South Georgia residents were filled with pride in having another opportunity to celebrate independence. Man residents expressed how moving it was to view fireworks with the sounds of the 1812, Overture filling the air. An estimated 10,000 people attended the inaugural event surpassing all original estimates. Although they were originally cautious, command was very pleased with the celebration and moved to establish it as an annual event.

Now, the event is truly a base-wide effort. The Provost Marshal's office provides security and the Communications Branch helps plan for all communication, including two-way radios, command post and public address systems. The Public Affairs Office plays a large role by coordinating with the MWR Division on all advertising and publicity. The Fire and Medical department are utilized for emergency situations and the Facilities and Services Division, with logistics support from MWR engineer, handles the enormous electrical requirements for the event. Event planners also receive a tremendous amount of support from Headquarters Battalion in the form of tents, tables, chairs and manpower. The event is managed solely from MWR and MWR employees fully support the event in the form of food service, recreational planning and coordinating the fireworks display. As the event's popularity grows, so does its potential. The 1996 celebration was opened for corporate sponsorship opportunities and many sponsors - including Coca-cola and RJ Reynolds - participated. Next year, organizers are planning an event expansion that will include headline entertainment.