WATERTOWN, N.Y. -- Independence Day celebrations kicked off a bit early in Watertown with the annual Operation Yellow Ribbon Rally at Thompson Park, featuring the Syracuse Symphony.
Thousands of people filled the park's grounds to listen to the show and honor the men and women of the United States Army and Fort Drum.
"It's so timely because there are so many of our soldiers deployed right now and this is what it's all about, celebrating our independence," said Kirsten Rich, organizer of Operation Yellow Ribbon Rally.
Independence Day celebrations kicked off a bit early in Watertown with the annual Operation Yellow Ribbon Rally at Thompson Park, featuring the Syracuse Symphony.
"This is a 10th Mountain Division community. The folks here consider those brave men and women our neighbors. We love them and we care about them," said Representative John McHugh.
A fireworks show followed the concert.