Happy 4th

Military members aboard Naval Station Rota, Spain took part in a rare and special occasion during the base’s annual flag raising ceremony commemorating Independence Day July 1. “It is rare, a moment like this,” said Capt Bill Mosk, NAVSTA Rota commanding officer, “where we can all come together and watch the raising of an iconic symbol that has united our fellow Americans for generations.”

NAVSTA Rota resides on a Spanish-controlled installation, where the U.S. Navy, Air Force, Marines and Army live and work as guests. While raising the flag is a daily occurrence on U.S. military bases around the world, NAVSTA Rota is only permitted to fly the U.S. flag with special permission from the Spanish Admiral-in-Chief because of the Agreement for Defense Cooperation, the governing document between the U.S. and the Kingdom of Spain regarding this base.

“The flag stands for our land and our people,” continued Mosk. “It represents our highest principles, our way of life and our heritage – including the sacrifice of those who have bled and died for our freedom. Cherish this special moment, and stand reminded why we are here – to defend the greatest nation on the Earth.”

This year’s ceremony saw a larger gathering of military members than previous years. The U.S. Army’s 4th Infantry Division, Combat Aviation Brigade from Fort Hood, Texas, is at NAVSTA Rota conducting a helo-transload operation on their way to a year-long deployment in Afghanistan. The Soldiers welcomed the opportunity to observe and take part in the ceremony.

Spc. Rachel Eckman stood among her brothers and sisters in arms during the ceremony and said it was great to see all of the military branches doing something together. “This is what we all have in common,” said Eckman. “This is our flag and it gives you goose bumps to watch it rise.”For Yeoman 1st Class (SW/AW) Earl Mcfarland assigned to NAVSTA Rota said the day was special for him. Mcfarland recently transferred here from USS Anzio (CG 68) where he was accustomed to colors every day.

“It was strange coming here and not seeing the flag flying,” said Mcfarland. “Today, seeing it rise, felt good and very patriot. Every time I have walked by this morning, I’ve stopped and looked at it with the same feeling over coming me that I felt during the ceremony. It really is a beautiful sight.” The flag will fly over the base and receive honors every morning and evening through July 4.