Naval Station Rota saw a rare sight the morning of June 30, a sight many people assigned here only see once a year... that's the sight of the stars and stripes flying high atop a flagpole.

Hundreds in the Rota community, to include service members, families, government civilians and retirees, gathered in front of the Commander, U.S. Naval Activities Spain headquarters building for the annual Independence Day flag raising ceremony.

While raising the flag is a daily occurrence on most U.S. military installations around the world, Naval Station Rota only flies the American flag with special permission from the base's Spanish admiral.

Entering into the 64th year of the partnership between the United States and Kingdom of Spain, Capt. Mike MacNicholl, Naval Station Rota commanding officer, reminded guests why this day is special.

"We must remember what our flag means and that what our flag represents is not free," said Capt. Michael MacNicholl, Naval Station Rota commanding officer. "Let us give thanks and remember those who preceded us. Remember those before you who fought and defended it for us, as we will do for future generations."

The ceremony began the five days the American flag will be displayed aboard Naval Station Rota. The flag will stay hoisted until July 5 when it will be taken down until another approved event.

"Spend a few moments today reflecting on the cost of freedom," said MacNicholl. "Keep in your hearts and prayers those on deployment or in combat zones, especially members of our Rota family."

The U.S. presence in Rota is a unique relationship, which in turn makes the Fourth of July a special event.

Naval Station Rota enables and supports operations of U.S. and allied forces and provides quality services in support of the fleet, fighter and family for Commander, Navy Installations Command in Navy Region Europe, Africa, Southwest Asia (EURAFSWA).

Just as ship performs lines of operation that provide a capability, Navy Region EURAFSWA bases perform the same eight lines of operation to provide capability to the fleet, joint and allied forces. These eighth lines of operation are: air operations, port operations, safety, security, housing, MWR, Fleet and Fleet and Family Services and what is called the core: the fuels, water and power that keep the bases running. Through our lines of operation, our installations are force multipliers that maximize combat capability of operational units.

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For more news from Naval Station Rota, Spain, visit www.navy.mil/.