Military members honored at Greer’s annual Freedom Blast

GREER, S.C. (WSPA) – Thousands of people gathered at City Park in Greer to not just celebrate the birth of our nation but to honor the reason for freedom.

The United States turns 247 years old next week, but in Greer, the celebrations start a few days early.

The City of Greer’s Freedom Blast not only recognizes the Unites States’ independence but focuses on honoring veterans and those actively serving.

“Being a Vietnam veteran we understand, now everyone is trying to show their appreciation for things, that didn’t happen back when we came home. It’s fantastic, great crowd and it seems like everybody is respecting the military and honoring the military,” said Jim Stone with the Marine Corps League.

At this year’s Freedom Blast, there were dozens of food vendors, live music, a firework show and even skydivers.

“The sky diving thing with the flag was pretty neat,” said attendee Dan Dillard. “My little boy, he’s two years old, was looking at it and he was all about it.”

People also took time to reflect on what the fourth means to them.

“I think about the military, I think about our founders and the long-term vision that they had, they weren’t just thinking about the here and now they were thinking about generations from now and securing those freedoms for future generations. I think it’s a reminder to us that we need to be looking long term as well because our children will be here long after we are gone and we need to make sure that we are leaving them truth, principles and freedom,” Dillard said.

Freedom Blast is one of the largest fireworks shows in South Carolina.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSPA 7NEWS.