Happy Independence Day, Hug a Serviceperson

This past Friday I had the opportunity to cover the

Some of my favorite pieces are when I am able to cover the happy moments in Prince William County. After all, I was born and raised here; this is my hometown.

As I was taking photos of the newly minted Technician I's on Friday, the overwhelming sense of community was evident. While 26 recruits graduated Friday morning, the auditorium at the A.J. Ferlazzo building was filled to capacity with supporters. 

Local politicians, family members, friends, nearby fire and rescue departments, and current fire and rescue servicepeople. 

While every single seat was filled with a person there to support a recruit, the back of the auditorium was lined with the current members of the county's fire and rescue squads.

We don't get to write much about our "behind the scenes" when it comes to us Patchers covering stories, but I felt that on today, of all days, we need to thank those that risk their lives for us. 

I come from a military family, my grandfathers and my uncle served in the Air Force and Army. I've grown up in PWC, sandwiched between Quantico Marine Corps Base and Ft. Belvoir, where my uncle was stationed most of my life. 

A dear friend of mine graduated from high school and immediately joined the Marine Corps. 

To them, I say a resounding "thank you."

To Cpl. , who served in Afghanistan and was paralyzed after an accident serving in the Marine Corps, and showed what a community Prince William County could be to welcome home once of its own, I say thank you. 

To every member of our Occoquan-Woodbridge-Lorton Volunteer Fire Department, the PWC Department of Fire and Rescue, the PWC Police Department, and our local troops: thank you. 

For this Fourth of July, while we're out celebrating with friends and family, remember to thank a serviceperson.