South Florida military members and their families celebrated July 4th with a barbecue at the Port of Miami.
"When we are between deployments and other things, it's a real great time to spend time with our families," said U.S. Marine George Bognar.
Put on by volunteers, more than 500 military members, veterans, and their loved ones ate, drank, and played for free.
"Remember, families serve also. They are serving back home with the kids and the headaches and other things," said Charles Flowers, a veteran.
Just about every branch of the military was represented and they all get along.
"We are all family, at least in the military, and we try to take care of one another. This is a family event and a family occasion. They love it," said Stan Bodner, who organized the barbecue.
It's the 14th year the barbecue has been hosted for military members and their families.
A few years ago, organizers moved it to the Port of Miami because they'd be able to see the fireworks at Bicentennial Park in Downtown Miami and the ones in Miami Beach.
The weather was hot but they had an answer for that.
"Bud Light for these hard-working troops," said one man.
But in the midst of the 4th of July food and fun, they were still thinking of others who can't celebrate our nations birthday here at home.
"I have friends that are currently serving overseas. My thoughts are always with them, but particularly on a day like today," said Jeffrey Rudderforth.