Columbus to host Independence Day celebration Published June 20, 2008 By 14th Flying Training Wing Public Affairs Special to Silver Wings COLUMBUS AFB, Miss. -- Columbus Air Force Base and the City of Columbus will host "Fireworks on the Water", a free and open-to-the-public event, 4 p.m. July 4 at the east bank of the Stennis Lock and Dam. The event will feature live entertainment by two local bands as well as activities for children, food and drink vendors, and will conclude with a professional firework display choreographed to music. "Fireworks on the Water will be a great community event to celebrate the nation's birthday," said Sonic Johnson, chief of public affairs at Columbus Air Force Base. "Columbus Air Force Base joins the city of Columbus and the Army Corps of Engineers inviting members of the community to the Stennis Lock and Dam to celebrate this patriotic holiday. There is no admission charge and should be something for everyone." The activities will begin at 4 p.m. with music by Paul Swain. Opening ceremonies will begin at 6 p.m. with remarks from Col. Roger Watkins, the new wing commander at Columbus AFB, and Robert Smith, mayor of the City of Columbus. Performance by local band CatDaddy will play up until dark and will also play after the fireworks show. For children, inflatable jumpers and face painting will be available. The fireworks display will start at approximately 9:30 p.m. Due to limited parking, people are encouraged to carpool to the event. A parking area has been reserved for any group that arrives via bus. Event-goers are encouraged to arrive early and bring blankets and lawn chairs. Please leave your pets, personal fireworks, including sparklers and morning glories, at home as they are not permitted. This is going to be one event you will not want to miss.