ASSOCIATED PRESS U.S. soldier and Hawaii resident Peter Mahoe pitched horseshoes in Baghdad, Iraq, yesterday. U.S. soldiers celebrated Independence Day relaxing outside a former Saddam Hussein palace.

4-day Bayfest joins
community

The event will draw about 45,000
people during its duration

Deandre Walker wore his country's colors yesterday to celebrate Independence Day.

Like many Americans, he was enjoying a long Fourth of July weekend despite wars raging in distant lands.

Walker, a platoon sergeant stationed in Germany, spent his free time with his son and daughter before he returns to duty in nine days.

"The kids love all of the excitement and learning about our country's history," Walker said while his son and daughter explored a military helicopter. "They're helping us celebrate our nation's birthday, and you really get a patriotic sense when you're out here."

Walker, who was dressed from head to toe in red, white and blue, took his family to the 16th annual Bayfest at Marine Corps Base Hawaii in Kaneohe yesterday to enjoy rides, games, food and entertainment.

This is the third year the event coincides with Independence Day, and the first time it is a four-day event.

"It is a great event promoting community interaction and family values," said Debbie Bookatz, the commercial, sponsorship and advertising coordinator.

Officials said the event drew crowds of about 9,000 people on Friday and Saturday night, and they expect 45,000 people in all for the event.

"Summer is the biggest transition period for the Marines," said William Lindsey, the event's head coordinator. "It is a great opportunity to introduce our servicemen to the local community since they come from all over the country."

Jay Heitink, who is stationed at MCBH, said, "You really get a sense for the aloha spirit mixed in with some good old-fashioned country music, which reminds me of home."

Yesterday, Bayfest featured country music star Brad Paisley. Tonight, the event features Southern rock band Lynard Skynard, which is expected to perform songs such as "Sweet Home Alabama" and "Free Bird."

The performance will be followed by a 20-minute fireworks display at 10:30 p.m.

As a service to the community, Marines are available for photo opportunities and to help people explore the various military displays.

"It's a perfect fit. They get to check out the tools we use to fight for independence," Cpl. Jason Bowen said as he showed a boy how to operate some military artillery. "It's a chance for them to touch and feel what our lives are all about."

Ala Moana, Kailua and
military plan fireworks

» Ala Moana Center: The fireworks, featuring thousands of aerial shells synchronized to a musical score, start at 8:30 p.m. and last about 20 minutes. Before the fireworks, catch entertainment at the mall's center stage between noon and 5 p.m.

Music will continue at 6 p.m. at the mall level, makai of Sears, and include the U.S. Navy Fleet Band, the Makaha Sons and Go Jimmy Go.

» Schofield Barracks' Sills Field: The Army's 34th Annual Fourth of July Spectacular will include fireworks starting about 8:30 p.m. The free event starts at 8 a.m. and also features children's games and rides, food and entertainment.

» Kailua Beach Park: Kailua's fireworks show starts about 8 p.m. Earlier in the day, catch the 59th annual Kailua Parade, which runs from 10 a.m. to noon, with community groups and bands moving down Kainalu Drive from Palapu Street.

» Pearl Harbor block party: The event is only open to those with Pearl Harbor access, but the 8:30 p.m. fireworks show could likely be seen from off base. The festivities start at 2 p.m. and include music, carnival games and food vendors.

» Bayfest Hawaii: The latest fireworks show on the island is set for 10:30 p.m. at Kaneohe Marine Corps Base Hawaii. The fireworks will coincide with the last day of Bayfest Hawaii, a series of events and concerts at the base.

Admission after 5 p.m. is $15 at the gate for adults and $10 for children. Before 5 p.m., adults pay $5 and kids pay $3. Children under 3 get in free all day.