Several thousand people flocked to Barton Field July 2 for Fort Gordon’s annual Independence Day celebration.

“It’s been a great event,” said Col. Glenn Kennedy, garrison commander. “It’s symbolic of the great relationship there is between Fort Gordon and the community.”

Events began mid-afternoon with carnival rides, water rides and games. There were more than 40 food and craft vendors.

“This is our biggest effort so far,” said Steve Walpert, Fort Gordon’s entertainment director. “We’re so excited about the turn out.”

A1A: The Original Jimmy Buffet Tribute Band and the Fort Gordon Signal Corps Band also performed during the day.

“This is the first year we’ve had two stages,” he said.

The bands typically perform on the same stage, but there is a lag between performances as one band has to remove equipment while another sets its equipment up.

The Signal Corps Band performed a collection of patriotic pieces as well as some jazz standards in a pre-fireworks concert. Flo Carter, who has performed for more than 50 years in the Augusta area, joined the band to sing “But Not For Me” and “They Can’t Take That Away.”

As the band finished playing Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture, the cannons fired, signaling the start of the fireworks extravaganza.

It was the first time Michelle Derrick of North Augusta had ever seen the fireworks at the installation.

“It was awesome. They were the best I’ve ever seen, and I’ve seen a lot,” she said.

Walpert said plans are to make next year’s event even bigger than this year’s.
Fireworks explode at Barton Field during an early Independence Day celebration held July 2.
Children enjoy carnival rides during the 4th of July festivities held at Barton Field July 2.
Children race down a slip and slide ride during 4th of July festivities held at Barton Field July 2.
Children climb aboard a 155mm Self-Propelled Howitzer Paladin tank during 4th of July festivities.