On July 4th, 1776 America won its independence from a tyrannical leadership through strength and unyielding determination. The shackles of an oppressive government were thrown off and the light of a new age rose from the horizon.

242 years later, the first people to see the sunlight on this hallowed day are the citizens of Eastport, Maine. It is in this small community that the first light of day graces the shores of America. Eastport holds the largest July 4th Celebration in Maine and the guests of honor this year is the ship and crew of the guided-missile destroyer USS McFaul (DDG 74).

As an Arleigh Burke-Class Destroyer, McFaul's routine mission is to prowl the oceans, ensuring maritime security around the globe. This week the ship was able to take time away from its regular duties to make a port call during such a significant holiday.

The crew took full advantage in port to educate Americans that don't typically have the opportunity to encounter the Navy. Through Sailor conducted tours and media availabilities, McFaul was able to reach out to the locals and leave a lasting impression on the community.

"After being onboard a year you know the ship like the back of your hand," said Fire Controlman 2nd Class Donald Seelhoff. "You take for granted all the lingo you learn, living around such powerful weaponry and even how to open a door or hatch. Being able to host the public onboard gave me a newfound respect for the ship and its capabilities. Seeing the excitement and awe took me back to when I first checked in onboard. It's an awesome thing to give people a taste of the Navy life when they have no prior knowledge of it. "

In addition to community outreach McFaul's Sailors participated in a wide variety of events from concerts to receptions. The largest and most widely received being the July 4th parade. Almost 200 Sailors in dress whites marched through the streets of Eastport to celebrate the monumental day.

"When you're out to sea doing a normal daily routine, it's easy to forget the impact you have on our nation and people's lives," said Chief Gunner's Mate Marvin Ford. "Watching everyone's faces light up and feeling that infectious enthusiasm was incredible. It made me incredibly proud to know that everything I give in the Navy is for these people. Not only in this city but so many more like this around the country."

Mainers travelled far and wide to take part in the celebration. In such a small city so far-removed from the presence of naval operations, the ability to interact and learn firsthand what the Navy really is was an incredible opportunity for some.

"This is the first time I've ever come close to a Navy ship before," said Mark Holton, a resident of Jonesboro, Maine. "It felt like a movie today, all the Sailors marching in a parade, dressed in white. Just stepping foot onboard filled my heart with pride. This is the most patriotic July 4th celebration I'll probably ever experience."

"It's our duty as Sailors to not only protect this country, but to build a good relationship with the people we fight for," said Cmdr. Janet Days, McFaul's commanding officer. "Eastport is our home away from home. The people here have welcomed us with open arms and I can't express my appreciation enough. There's nowhere else I would want to spend this year's Independence Day than right here."

As the sun slowly sank behind the horizon and the cool night air began to settle crowds of people turned their gaze to the sky. Fireworks shot up erupting high in the air, washing the destroyer in swathes of vibrant colors.

"When we were told that we would be going to Maine I didn't really know what to expect," said Gunner's Mate 2nd Class Gaston Gagne. "I was taken back by how friendly the people were, how far they were willing to go out of their way to make sure we had a good time. It was all out of gratitude because of the sacrifices we make. This is honestly the coolest July 4th celebration I've ever had."

Mcfaul is the 24th Arleigh Burke-Class Destroyer stationed out of Norfolk, Virginia.


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For more news from Commander, Naval Surface Force, U.S. Atlantic Fleet, visit www.navy.mil/.