Jul 4, 2008 8:24 pm US/Central
Navy Base Celebrates 4th For First Time Since 2001
CHICAGO (CBS) ―
For the first time since the September 11th attacks, the Great Lakes Naval Station has reopened its doors to the public. Thousands jammed the base today for a holiday celebration.
CBS 2's Vince Gerasole spent the day there with families and very happy members of the military.
From the music onstage to the burgers on the grill, the all-American celebration is really a throwback to the not so distant past at the Great Lakes Naval Station.
"It's been about more than just the Navy, it's about the community, and it's about time we reintegrated with the community to celebrate the nation's birthday," said Capt. David Schnell, Great Lakes Naval Station.
This is the first time since the 9/11 attacks the general public is again passing through the base's front gates, and joining the military community here for July 4th festivities.
Locals and enlisted personnel are sharing good times again, but this time around, those in uniform here are volunteers who could soon be off to war.
"I think I am doing it for everybody, for freedom, everybody, not just me or you," said Gerardo Contreras, U.S. Navy.
Ed and Millie Stanulis, of Waukegan, began coming to celebrations here in the 1940s.
"You feel so proud to be here," Millie said. "You feel so good to be an American."
Members of the greatest generation, Ed served in World War II in the Navy. They say the crowds here have a special appreciation for the sacrifices of military families.
"They thank you and it makes you want to cry because people still appreciate you," Ed said.
As many as 50,000 used to crowd the grounds here on July 4th. The community is anxious to return to the good old days.
"I get feedback on a weekly basis on the way things used to be and we're slowly returning to the way things used to be with this celebration today," Capt. Schnell said.
The celebration is also about making ties stronger between the local community and the military personnel.
The crowds at Great Lakes Naval Station are expected to reach 15,000 today. The fireworks show will begin at 9:30 p.m.
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