SAN ANTONIO - On the day America's independence is celebrated, at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery nearly two dozen military veteran organizations paid tribute to those who served and sacrificed.
The focus of the 28th Fourth of July Patriotic Ceremony was remembering Spain's contributions to the American Revolution.
"The 13 American colonies could not have become the United States without the vital assistance of Spain,” said keynote speaker Brigadier General Kirk Vollmecke.
During the first two years of the American Revolution, Spain sent covert assistance to the American colonists, including weapons and medicine.
In 1779, Spain declared war on England.
The ceremony this year was sponsored by the Order of Granaderos y Damas de Galvez.
Retired Army Sgt. James Gerard, 82, attended the event.
He served in both the Korean and Vietnam War.
Gerard said he was glad to see the Spanish soldiers' contributions commemorated.
With countless friends buried at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery, Gerard said he wants to make sure no soldier is forgotten no matter when they served.
