'Warrior Diplomats' join with Round Rock to celebrate 4th of July

Article and Photos by Staff Sgt. David House, 85^th Civil Affairs Brigade Public Affairs

ROUND ROCK, Texas – As flags waved in the blue sky, the sound of band music, and enough sweets to solve any sweet tooth, where else could you imagine celebrating our nation’s birthday?  Members of the 85^th Civil Affairs Brigade took part in such an event as they strengthened their partnership with the city of Round Rock by marching in their July 4^th parade in conjunction with Round Rock’s Annual Frontier Days celebration.

From boots on the ground, waving from the back of a colorful parade float and cruising inside the military Humvee, the members of the 85^th CA Bde. came prepared to give the crowd their best.

“I can't tell you the pride that wells up inside and makes you feel good about what you do after seeing the reaction from the crowd,” said 85th Civil Affairs Brigade Cmd. Sgt. Maj. Mark E. Berry. "You don't see any better support and love for this nation than you will see in Central Texas."

For others, it was a chance to meet an idol.

“Army men!” exclaimed Tommy Hernandez, age 6. “The Army men are my favorite! It is what I want to be when I grow up.”

Young and old alike, all were thankful to the men and women in uniform.

“It’s really great,” said Michelle Williams, Round Rock resident. “I think it’s great that the Soldiers came out today and that we could show them how much we really appreciate what they do for our country.”

“I’m just glad we could do something like this to give back to the community,” Staff Sgt. Kimber De La Rosa said. “Being able to see how they welcoming they are to us really hits home on a day like this, especially with how hot it has been recently.”

Despite the heat, thousands lined up along main street to see the more than 125 parade entries that encompassed the event which kicked off the day’s celebration that could only be concluded with a spectacular fireworks display.  Such a display was looked forward to by many as last year’s planned fireworks were cancelled due to the drought and fire danger.

"Thank you so much for being out here," said Craig Bushon, parade host and local radio host. "Having you guys in the parade really means a lot.

The event was just one of many that the 85^th Civil Affairs Brigade has done with their partnered city with many more events planned for the future.

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Spc. Rafael Lopez spends time with his family during the July 4^th festivities at the Frontier Days celebration in Round Rock, Texas. The 85^th Civil Affairs Brigade was invited by the city of Round Rock to participate in the parade. (Photo by Staff Sgt. David House, 85th CA PAO)

Staff Sgt. Kimber De La Rosa, 85th Civil Affairs Brigade, is interviewed by parade host and radio personality Craig Bushon during the Sertoma July 4th parade held at Round Rock, Texas. The brigade was invited by the city to participate in the parade as part of the Frontier Days celebration. (Photo by Staff Sgt. David House, 85th CA PAO)

Members of the 85th Civil Affairs Brigade participated in the Sertoma July 4th parade held at Round Rock, Texas. The brigade was invited by the city to participate in the parade as part of the Frontier Days celebration. (Photo by Staff Sgt. David House, 85th CA PAO)